2026 Fall Intern - Research & Development: Materials Science / Metallurgical Engineering

About the role

This role is categorized as hybrid. The successful candidate is expected to report in-office three times per week, at minimum. The start date for this internship is September 7, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas
• Investigate material root causes of premature failure in additively manufactured die inserts and related systems
• Perform fracture surface analysis, microstructural characterization, and corrosion layer evaluation to assess material behavior and failure mechanisms
• Support laboratory testing efforts to identify opportunities to improve fatigue life and durability in additively manufactured tool steels
• Contribute to research in materials science, metallurgical engineering, surface science, and materials discovery
• Document and present results; depending on the assignment, work may lead to external publications and/or intellectual property
• Develop and execute specific research plans, including concept generation, development, implementation, and validation
• Collaborate effectively with peers, management, operations groups, and outside organizations

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship required to comply with federal government contract provision expressly restricting role to U.S. citizens
• Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program
• Pursuing a degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related science/engineering field
• Strong foundation in materials characterization, failure analysis, metallurgy, corrosion, or surface science
• Experience with laboratory research methods and data analysis
• Ability to work both independently and in teams
• Consistently demonstrate critical thinking and strong teamwork
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent persuasion, active listening, delegation, and leadership skills to work effectively with GM internal and external customers

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related science/engineering field

Skills

• Research and experimentation skills
• Material characterization and failure analysis
• Laboratory research methods and data analysis
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Verbal and written communication skills
• Leadership and persuasion skills

Benefits

For details about benefits, visit Total Rewards resources.

Pay

Details about pay will be provided during the hiring process.

Schedule

The role is categorized as hybrid. The successful candidate is expected to report in-office three times per week, at minimum.

GM's Commitment to Diversity

General Motors is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on gender, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.