Researcher - Battery Material Characterization and Method Development

GM•Warren, MI

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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