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

Job 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
• Exc