The ASME’s mission is to “serve diverse global communities by advancing, disseminating and applying engineering knowledge for improving the quality of life, and communicating the excitement of engineering.”

In order to become a fellow of the professional association, one must be nominated and adhere to the qualifications, which include being responsible for significant engineering achievements as well as having been an active member for at least 10 years.

Jacobs has authored or co-authored more than 120 papers in journals and conference proceedings. His research focuses on the development of quantitative methodologies for the nondestructive evaluation and life prediction of structural materials.

As the associate dean for academic affairs, Jacobs represents the dean’s office in issues concerning undergraduate and graduate academics.