Ulster on a 'revenge' mission
The men from Northern Ireland crashed out of last season's competition at the pool stages, after a slow start against their pool three rivals Toulon, Leicester Tigers and the Scarlets.
Les Kiss and his men face a first-round trip to Oyonnax, as they bid to get their pool one campaign off to a flying start.
And Jackson is hoping to make up for the disappointments of last season.
"I'm massively looking forward to getting back into European rugby," Jackson said.
"It's always got that added X-factor to it and we're champing at the bit to get at Oyonnax.
"We didn't do too well in Europe last year and it's a big goal for us to start well."
Ulster face a tricky course into the quarterfinals – with Europe's most successful side Stade Toulousain standing in their way.
They must also fight past 2014 runners-up Saracens in what promises to be a mouthwatering race to the last eight.
The Ulstermen warmed up for their French trip with a 19-12 triumph over the Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade.
Steve Mulholland made his league debut in the triumph and up and coming hooker Kyle McCall made a big impact.
And Director of Rugby Les Kiss reckons the character they showed to hold on against the Dragons will stand them in good stead for a European assault.
"The type of character and toughness we showed in this win gives us the perfect platform going into Europe," Kiss said.
"It's going to be a totally different environment next week. It is a 3G pitch with a little bit of elevation.
"The ball floats a bit differently in the air and we won't have rain up there, so it's a different environment but gong forward it's great to have exposed young guys."
Source: @ChampionsCup
