Description

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Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report in office three times per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business].

Start dates for this internship role are May 18 & June 15 of 2026.

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The Team:

Join a legacy of innovation at General Motors Research & Development in the Materials Manufacturing Systems Research (MMSR) organization.  As an Academic Research Intern, you’ll contribute to cutting-edge solutions that redefine how vehicles are built, working hands-on with emerging technologies and collaborating across disciplines. Your ideas, experiments, and insights will help shape the future of manufacturing and drive meaningful impact across the industry.

MMSR is pioneering cutting-edge quality verification systems that uphold the integrity of every product we build. At General Motors Research & Development, we don’t just innovate—we redefine the future of manufacturing. Now, we’re seeking visionary talent to help shape the next chapter of this legacy and drive technological progress that builds a better tomorrow.

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Role:

As an Academic Research Intern in MMSR, you’ll join a team at the forefront of manufacturing inspection and quality verification. You’ll contribute bold ideas, explore emerging research directions, and help craft technical strategies that push boundaries. Your work will span hands-on experimentation, data collection and analysis, and process validation—from early proof-of-concept through full-scale production systems.

You’ll document your findings through high-impact research reports, publications, and invention disclosures—fueling GM’s innovation pipeline while accelerating your own professional growth. This role requires a strong foundation in physics, mechanical, electrical, or materials engineering, along with familiarity with machine learning and AI toolsets. You’ll also apply project management principles and collaborate across disciplines to solve real-world manufacturing challenges with creativity and rigor.

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What You Will Do:

• Assess emerging inspection technologies for high-volume manufacturing by:
  • Identifying and developing novel techniques
  • Designing and executing controlled experiments
  • Analyzing results using statistical and computational methods
  • Synthesizing findings into actionable insights
• Deliver high-impact technical communication through detailed reports, data-driven presentations, and stakeholder briefings that inform strategic decisions.
• Generate intellectual property that protects innovation and strengthens GM’s competitive position in advanced manufacturing.
• Develop new methodologies that extend the capabilities of industrial R&D, with emphasis on scalability, robustness, and integration into production environments.
• Execute with autonomy and technical integrity, ensuring each deliverable aligns with GM’s mission and engineering standards.
• Stay technically current by monitoring emerging trends in inspection science, automation, and AI—and translating them into practical applications.

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Required Qualifications:

• U.S. citizenship required to comply with federal government contract provision expressly restricting role to U.S. citizens.
• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant science or engineering discipline (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or Materials Engineering)
• Minimum of 2 years of hands-on research experience, gained through academic, institutional, or industrial R&D settings.
• Proficiency in experimental design and execution
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and systems integration, especially in automotive or high-volume production environments.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary and global technical teams, with a strong commitment to shared success.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to lead or contribute meaningfully to technical projects, both independently and within team environments.
• Strong analytical and computational skills, including experience with simulation tools, modeling software, and data analysis platforms.
• Intellectual curiosity and adaptability, with a passion for continuous learning and staying current with emerging technologies in manufacturing.

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What Will Give You a Competitive Advantage (Preferred Qualifications):

• Ph.D. degree from a top-tier research institution in a science or engineering discipline.
• Ph.D. degree with postdoctoral research experience in NDE (Non Destructive Evaluation) methods or advanced manufacturing.
• Experience AI/ML applications in manufacturing.
• Knowledge of software development practices, including proficiency in Python, C++, or other languages used in automation.
• Demonstrated innovation, such as published research, patents, or contributions to open-source robotics projects or technical communities.