Madison Reporter

Jacob Meyer, an assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the School of Education, has joined UW–Madison. Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Meyer holds a BS in Exercise Science with a concentration in Neuroscience from St. Olaf College (2008), and both an MS and PhD in Kinesiology (specializing in Exercise Psychology) from UW–Madison (2011 and 2015). He completed a postdoctoral research fellowship in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at UW–Madison before joining Iowa State University as an assistant professor in 2017, where he was promoted to associate professor in 2023.

Meyer's research focuses on developing and testing behavioral interventions for mental health conditions, particularly depression. "After my own experiences linking behavior to mental health," Meyer said, "I became very interested in identifying the best ways to integrate movement into mental health treatment as well as determining how exercise or other physical activity actually changes mood at the molecular and mechanistic levels."

When asked what attracted him to UW–Madison, Meyer cited its reputation for cutting-edge scientific research, a well-supported academic medical center, and potential collaborations with faculty members. "And it does not hurt that it’s a bit of a homecoming too!" he added.

Reflecting on his first visit back to campus after seven years away, Meyer noted significant growth. "My research program will include exercise interventions," he stated. "The Bakke and Nick are incredible resources for students and the community alike." He expressed excitement about contributing to UW's leadership in research promoting human flourishing while impacting the local community.

Meyer believes his work aligns with the Wisconsin Idea by translating teaching and research into practical applications outside the classroom. "By conducting large-scale intervention research," he explained, "we are actively working with hundreds of people to test new programs to improve their health and well-being." This approach also provides students with opportunities for internships and direct community engagement.

Addressing common misconceptions in exercise psychology, Meyer shared an interesting fact: "One debunked myth is that if someone exercises while their endorphin receptors are blocked, they still feel better afterwards! The search for the 'feel-good' biomarkers of exercise continues."

Outside of his professional interests, Meyer enjoys exercising, spending time with family, being outdoors, and exploring local food and beverages from coffee shops to breweries.