Robert W. Jacobson began his career with the Oregon State University Extension Service in 1967 as a Marine Extension Agent. In 1968, when the Marine Science Extension Center opened in Newport, Oregon, Jacobson was relocated to the new center. Jacobson remained a constant in Newport as his department expanded with the establishment of the Oregon Sea Grant program. In 1995, Jacobson retired after 28 years of service with an Emeritus appointment.