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Phd In Physics Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will leverage data science, machine learning, physics-based modeling, and ... PhD in a related technical field. * Experience in Automotive, Connected Vehicle, EV, Controls ...

Advanced (PhD) degree in science/engineering disciplines. New PhD grad up to 1-3 years work ... Strong background in physics-based modeling of continuous and discrete systems using first ...

Master's or PhD degree in medical physics or related discipline. * Board Certified or eligible for certification in therapeutic medical physics from American Board of Radiology (ABR) or equivalent ...

Master's or PhD degree in medical physics or related discipline. * Board Certified or eligible for certification in therapeutic medical physics from American Board of Radiology (ABR) or equivalent ...

Master's or PhD degree in medical physics or related discipline. * Board Certified or eligible for certification in therapeutic medical physics from American Board of Radiology (ABR) or equivalent ...

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Phd In Physics information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$10.9K

$60.5K

$93.6K

How much do phd in physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in physics in Detroit, MI is $60,546.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in Physics?

A PhD in Physics is the highest academic degree awarded in the field of physics. It involves several years of advanced coursework, independent research, and the completion of a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field. Earning a PhD prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, industry, and government, where they can apply their deep understanding of physical principles to solve complex problems. The process typically takes 4-6 years beyond a bachelor's or master's degree.

What are the common career paths available to someone with a PhD in Physics outside of academia?

A PhD in Physics opens doors to a wide range of career paths beyond academia, including roles in industry research and development, data science, finance, technology consulting, and government or national laboratories. Many physicists find rewarding careers in sectors like aerospace, energy, and healthcare, leveraging their problem-solving and analytical skills. Collaboration is often key, as you'll work with interdisciplinary teams of engineers, data analysts, and project managers. Transitioning into these roles may involve learning new tools or adapting to different team structures, but the foundational skills from your PhD are highly valued.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Physics, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Physics, you need advanced knowledge of physical theories, strong analytical skills, and experience in research methodologies, typically supported by a doctoral degree in physics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and scientific publishing systems is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for presenting complex ideas and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting impactful research, advancing scientific understanding, and succeeding in academic or industry settings.

What is the difference between Phd In Physics vs Physicist?

AspectPhd In PhysicsPhysicist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in PhysicsTypically a PhD in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academiaResearch institutions, industry, academia
Industry UsageAcademic and research-focused rolesResearch, development, applied physics roles
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic qualificationsCareer options and job roles

In summary, a Phd In Physics is an academic qualification, while a Physicist is a professional working in research or industry. The Phd is necessary to become a Physicist, but not all Physicists hold a PhD. The roles often overlap in research environments, but the PhD emphasizes education, whereas Physicist roles focus on applying physics principles.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Physics jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Phd In Physics jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd In Physics jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd In Physics jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Phd In Physics jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Phd In Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd In Physics job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,546 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Researcher, Vehicle Health Management (VHM), Energy and Propulsion Systems

General Motors

Warren, MI • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,279 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Warren, MI three times per week, at minimum.

The Role

Energy and Propulsion Systems research is aimed at driving propulsion and vehicle efficiency, cost, and performance improvements. Research also focuses on advancing vehicle and propulsion systems to target enterprise cost reduction through warranty improvement and engineering development efficiency.

We are looking for highly motivated, technically exceptional candidates to join our team in the fast-growing field of Vehicle Health Management (VHM). This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of connected vehicles, data science, physics-based modeling, and advanced AI to create technologies that make vehicle ownership more convenient, and more seamless for millions of customers.

In this role, you will help transform vehicle engineering data-collected through wireless communication with customer consent-into actionable insights that can predict system issues before they affect vehicle performance or disrupt everyday life. Our VHM work combines fundamental physics-based understanding with modern machine learning approaches, including large language models, to deliver scalable diagnostics, prognostics, and system performance management solutions.

GM is a leader in this space. One example is the industry-first OnStar Proactive Alert for Starting System, which warns customers of a potential component failure before it becomes an emergency, turning unplanned repairs into scheduled maintenance. Today, this service is available on more than 10 million GM vehicles. Joining this team means contributing to technologies already making a real-world impact at scale.

What You'll Do

What makes this role especially exciting is the chance to work with a collaborative, forward-looking team tackling challenges in cloud computing, predictive modeling, and AI/ML to advance Vehicle Health Management. We are looking for researchers who are energized by technical innovation and motivated by the ability to translate their work into meaningful improvements in people's everyday lives. Here are just a few of the opportunities you can look forward to:

  • Generate innovative ideas and establish new research areas
  • Generate intellectual property, document results, and publish high quality papers
  • Develop next-generation technologies for vehicle system diagnosis, prognosis, and fault-tolerant controls as well as integration
  • Develop and execute technical plans, including concept generation, prototype development, system implementation, and performance evaluation
  • Lead technical discussions and reviews as an expert in this field internally and externally
  • Maintain state-of-the-art technical expertise in related areas of responsibility
  • Collaborate with cross-functional global teams and world-class universities

What You'll Need (Required Qualifications)

  • PhD in Electrical, Controls, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field of study with demonstrated research capability or equivalent background, or Pursuing PhD in related fields
  • Strong background in physics-based modeling for continuous and discrete systems, using first principles, system identification, parameter estimation, control and optimization
  • Background in intelligent data modeling, using state-of-the-art AI/ML including LLM, signal processing, statistical inference
  • Background in fault detection and isolation, diagnostics and prognostics, root cause analysis
  • Experience in Python (including familiarity with ML frameworks such as PyTorch or Tensorflow), PySpark, MATLAB/Simulink
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with GM internal and external partners
  • This job may be eligible for relocation benefits

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Industry experience in related areas
  • Experience in application of advanced research and technology to the following automotive systems: internal combustion propulsion, high voltage battery, electromechanical actuators, power electronics, electrical systems, chassis systems, environmental sensors such as camera/radar/LIDAR, autonomous driving
  • Experience in large-scale data analytics
  • Hardware hands-on experience highly sought, including but not limited to experience in dSpace rapid prototyping, ETAS tools
  • Experience of project management
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}.

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.

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

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.


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About General Motors

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General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908