Jon Jacobsen

Jon Jacobsen is a Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College, specializing in nonlinear analysis, mathematical ecology, dynamical systems, and pedagogical theory. He holds a PhD from the University of Utah and has served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (2010–2015), Vice President for Student Affairs (2015–2018), and Chair of the Mathematics Department (2019–2024). His research explores mathematical biology, PDEs, and ecological modeling, with notable contributions to integrodifference equations and river ecosystem dynamics.

Education: BSc and MSc from California Polytechnic State University (SLO); PhD in Mathematics from the University of Utah (studying bifurcation theory for Monge-Ampère and k-Hessian equations).

Research interests include applying mathematics to ecological systems, exploring Polanyi’s theory of personal knowledge, and improving pedagogical practices in STEM education. He co-founded the Pathways Program to engage K-12 students in mathematics and created the Math Demo Lab featured on NPR’s Science Friday.

• Recipient of the Henry T. Mudd Prize (2018) for extraordinary service to Harvey Mudd College.
• Advisees include T. McAdam, V. Camacho, and others highlighted in his publications.
• Active in grants and outreach, including collaborations with ecologists and educators.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Mathematics Department’s outreach initiatives and ecological modeling research group.