Fall 2026 PhD Battery & Sustainability Intern - Battery Research and Development

Description

Battery Research and Development (BRD)

Work Arrangement:

Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to the GM Global Technical Center in Warren, MI at least three (3) days per week, or at a frequency dictated by their manager.

Our Company

At General Motors, we combine the passion of a startup with the influence of a global powerhouse. We pride ourselves on designing, building, and selling the world’s best vehicles and transportation solutions. Our vision of a future with zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion is bold, and our people are leading the way as we seek to transform the future of personal mobility. To achieve this vision, we need people to join us who are passionate about crafting safer, better, and more sustainable ways for people to get around.

The Role

We are looking for R&D Interns to support our battery characterization efforts and help develop the next generation of analytical methods for advanced battery materials. In this support role, the intern will primarily be responsible for performing characterization of battery materials, developing new and innovative characterization methods, and operating state-of-the-art instruments including X-ray CT, SEM, Raman spectroscopy, IC, HPLC, GC, XRF, GDOES, and others. Join our world-class Battery Research and Development (BRD) team today if you want to make a positive impact on the lives of millions of people.

In BRD, you will have opportunities to contribute to the research, innovation, and development of future electrification and propulsion technologies. These include but are not limited to new battery material and component R&D, development of innovative and non-standard methods to expedite the R&D process, cell fabrication process optimization, testing and validation of GM-built and supplier-provided batteries and components, benchmarking, and failure analysis. We design and prototype proof-of-concept hardware for next generation electric vehicles. We also explore and develop models that can predict battery performance, support material and process development, and help GM lead the way to an environmentally conscious, clean battery electric vehicle future.

Some exemplar research topics in BRD include:

Development of new and innovative methods for testing and characterization

Development of high-performance and low-cost battery materials

Battery fast charging

Battery cell design and integration

Battery and Systems Architecture

Improving Thermal Performance of Battery Materials and Components

Liquid, Solid and Semi-Solid State Batteries

What You’ll Do

Perform characterization of battery materials, components, and cells using a range of analytical instruments including X-ray CT, SEM, Raman spectroscopy, IC, HPLC, GC, XRF, GDOES, and others

Develop new and innovative characterization methods to advance and accelerate battery R&D

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas

Document and present results; depending on the assignment, results could lead to external publications and/or intellectual property

Assist lab management in identifying mega trends in technology and business strategies in the automotive sector

Develop and execute specific research plans, including concept generation, development, implementation, and validation

Collaborate effectively with peers, management, operations groups, and outside organizations

Required Qualifications

Currently enrolled in a PhD program

Degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related field

Strong theoretical and experimental skills

Previous research experience in battery material synthesis, analysis, and/or electrochemical characterization techniques

Previous research experience in design methodology development or technology transfer

Ability to work both independently and in a team environment

Consistently demonstrates critical thinking and strong teamwork

Effective verbal and written communication skills

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

Hands-on experience operating analytical instruments such as X-ray CT, SEM, Raman spectroscopy, IC, HPLC, GC, XRF, GDOES, or similar characterization tools

Prior internship experience in automotive, technology, or manufacturing industries

Demonstrates leadership in field of study, extra-curricular activities, or service organizations

Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, especially the ability to synthesize large amounts of data involving multiple variables into comprehensive, impactful insights

Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to distill sophisticated subjects to a wider audience

Willingness to ask questions, take initiative, and be inventive

Emerging partnership and teamwork skills with ability to learn from and share knowledge with co-workers in a rapidly evolving environment

Outstanding interpersonal and relationship management skills to effectively collaborate with varying levels of the organization

High level of integrity, ability to deal with ambiguity, and a self-directed work style

Evidence of strong character with integrity, honesty, accountability, and trust

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Total Rewards | Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us [email protected] or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.