Researcher - Battery Material Characterization and Method Development

Description

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.  

Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Role

Join GM’s Battery Research and Development team to advance next-generation EV battery chemistry, cell design, system integration, and manufacturing in support of GM’s battery technology roadmap. In this role, you will lead advanced battery materials and interface analysis using techniques such as X-ray CT, XRF, SEM, XPS, and XRD , develop new characterization methods, and support model development and virtualization efforts. You will also drive research and failure-analysis projects, collaborate with internal and external partners, and communicate findings through reports, presentations, and invention disclosures.

What You’ll Do

• Perform submicron X-ray computed tomography (CT) analysis of battery electrodes to study porosity and tortuosity distributions supporting battery R&D projects

• Perform X-ray CT of battery cells for inspection of layer alignment, anode over-hang, battery swelling, and failure analysis of batteries and other vehicle components

• Surface and interface chemistry analyses of battery materials and components

• Root cause and failure analysis of vehicle components and materials

• Develop understanding of material property and performance correlation through detailed material evaluation

• Provide characterization and analysis support to different research groups

• Support maintenance and calibration of analytical instruments

• Development of new methods of testing and characterizing batteries and their components at different stages of R&D.

• Observe and ensure GM and laboratory specific safety rules are followed

• Represent GM as a leader to the external technical and business communities

What You’ll Need (Required Qualifications)

• Master’s degree in a science or engineering field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR PhD in a science or engineering field with 1-2+ years of relevant experience

• 5+ years of experience in characterization of organic and/or inorganic materials

• Understanding and hands-on experience in materials characterization tools such as X-ray CT, SEM, XRD, XRF, sample preparation, etc.

• Understanding of 2D and 3D image processing.

• Experience generating innovative ideas, proposing new R&D projects, evaluating technologies, planning, and executing projects to meet customer needs.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry and technical developments to grow core technical skills and proficiencies

• Fast learner willing to pivot based on corporate objectives

• Experience managing relationships and growing partnership with divisional staffs to meet project objectives

• Experience leading technical discussions and reviews as an expert in your field, and communicating results and progress across the organization.

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

• Experience working with lithium-ion battery materials and components.

• Experience handling and characterization of air sensitive materials.

• Deep understanding and hand-on experience in materials characterization tools such as x-ray CT, SIMS, XPS, SEM, FIB, EPMA, XRF, ICP, TGA, GCMS, GD-OES, Raman, FTIR, etc.

• Experience with 2D and 3D image processing and analysis using tools like – ImageJ, Avizo, MATLAB, etc.

• Experience with battery performance testing and data analysis.

• Experience with modeling of voltage cycling data to extract useful information.

• Experience assisting lab management in identifying mega-trends in technology and business strategies in the automotive sector

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)

This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.

This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

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

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