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Physics Research Intern Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

Physics Research Intern information

See Rochester, MI salary details

$1.9K

$5.9K

$7.2K

How much do physics research intern jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average monthly pay for physics research intern in Rochester, MI is $5,927.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,066.67 and $7,058.33 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and daily tasks can I expect as a physics research intern?

As a Physics Research Intern, you'll typically assist with experimental setups, data collection, and analysis under the guidance of senior researchers. Your daily tasks may include running simulations, preparing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and reviewing scientific literature. Collaboration is common, as you'll often work closely with graduate students, postdocs, or faculty members. These experiences provide valuable exposure to the research process and can help you develop both technical and teamwork skills crucial for a career in physics.

What is a physics research intern?

Physics Research Interns are students or recent graduates who work under the supervision of professional physicists to gain hands-on experience in scientific research. They assist with experiments, data analysis, literature reviews, and sometimes the development of scientific equipment or software. These internships are typically part of educational programs and can take place in universities, research laboratories, or industry settings. The goal is to provide interns with practical skills and insights into the research process, preparing them for future careers in physics or related fields.

What is the difference between Physics Research Intern vs Physics Laboratory Assistant?

AspectPhysics Research InternPhysics Laboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in physics or related fieldOften students or entry-level with basic physics knowledge
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or corporate R&D departmentsUniversity labs, academic institutions, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, tech companiesUniversities, colleges, research centers
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research experience and internship rolesCompared for lab support and technical assistance roles

The main difference is that a Physics Research Intern focuses on conducting research projects, data analysis, and gaining hands-on experience in physics research. In contrast, a Physics Laboratory Assistant typically supports lab operations, maintains equipment, and assists with experiments. Both roles are valuable for physics students but differ in responsibilities and scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics research intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Research Intern, a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, and scientific research methods is essential, typically supported by progress toward a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and sometimes simulation tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help interns stand out in collaborative research environments. These skills ensure accurate data interpretation, successful experimentation, and productive teamwork, all of which are crucial for meaningful scientific contributions.
What job categories do people searching Physics Research Intern jobs in Rochester, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Research Intern jobs in Rochester, MI are:
What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Physics Research Intern jobs? Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Physics Research Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Physics Research Intern job openings in Rochester, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,127 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

2026 Fall Intern - Research & Development: AI/ML

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


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7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

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Job description

Job Description
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.).
To help facilitate administration of relocation benefits if you are selected, please apply using the permanent address you would move from.
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].
The start date for this internship is September 7, 2026.
The Team
At GM, we craft products people crave and experiences they never forget. It all starts with research and development. We are looking for R&D Interns to craft, design, and develop groundbreaking concepts and technologies that will help shape the future of mobility.
In this internship, you will plan and execute collaborative research that applies advanced artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computational methods to complex vehicle and mobility challenges. Projects may support areas such as vehicle development process acceleration, predictive engineering, vehicle safety, energy and propulsion systems, and next-generation research methods that enable faster, smarter, and more scalable engineering decisions.
You will work with technical leaders across GM Research and Development to explore innovative approaches that combine data, physics-based understanding, and modern AI/ML techniques to solve real-world problems. Our culture of innovation gives you the opportunity to be creative, contribute to impactful research, and help develop technologies that could influence the vehicles and systems of the future.
What You Will Do
  • Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas
  • Apply AI/ML, data science, and computational methods to engineering and research problems
  • Support development of methods, models, tools, or workflows that accelerate vehicle development and research outcomes
  • Assist with analysis of large, complex datasets to generate insights and improve prediction, automation, or decision-making
  • Collaborate with technical teams to evaluate emerging technologies and identify opportunities for application in automotive research
  • 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

Required Qualifications
  • 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 Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related science/engineering field
  • Strong foundation in AI/ML, statistical modeling, data analysis, or computational methods
  • Programming experience in Python and/or other relevant languages for machine learning, analytics, or scientific computing
  • 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

What Will Give You a Competitive Advantage (Preferred Qualifications)
  • Prior research, internship, or project experience applying AI/ML to engineering, physical systems, or large-scale data problems
  • Experience with machine learning model development, evaluation, and deployment workflows
  • Knowledge and experience of physics-based dynamic system modeling
  • Experience with NeruoSymbolic AI or Causal/Explainable AI or Emotion/Affective AI
  • Familiarity with generative AI, large language models, deep learning, or physics-informed/data-driven modeling approaches
  • Experience working with vehicle, test, simulation, sensor, or other engineering datasets
  • Demonstrated ability to translate technical findings into clear recommendations for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Outstanding interpersonal and relationship management skills to effectively collaborate with varying levels of the organization as needed
  • Demonstrates leadership in field of study, extra-curricular activities, or service organizations
  • Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, especially the ability to synthesize large amounts of data involving multiple variables into comprehensive, impactful insights
  • Willingness to ask questions, take initiative, and be inventive
  • Emerging partnership and teamwork skills and ability to learn from and share knowledge with co-workers in a rapidly moving environment
  • High level of integrity, ability to deal with ambiguity, and takes initiative/self-directed
  • Evidence of strong character with integrity, honesty, accountability, and trust

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, emailus 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