Originally from New Jersey, Jacob completed his undergraduate degree at Duke University, graduating magna cum laude with a B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology (High Distinction) and Music Performance (Distinction). As an undergraduate, Jacob characterized the requirement of mRNA decay for neocortical development in Debby Silver’s lab. Now, he has returned to Duke as a Ph.D. student in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and joined the Sherwood Lab, where he is exploring the regulation of basement membrane turnover and studying how to harness this process to repair fibrotic basement membranes. Outside of the lab, Jacob is an accomplished cellist; he has performed in a variety of ensembles across the United States, including the Durham Medical Orchestra, the NOI+F Philharmonic, the New World Symphony, and the Brevard Music Center Orchestra. He also enjoys playing golf, writing and directing quizbowl tournaments, and traveling to new places.
