General Motors and the University of Michigan have teamed up to create the Institute of Automotive Research. As part of the schools engineering division, the vision of the new institute is to "deliver world-class research and education with a strategic focus on the reinvention of the automobile through energy diversity and innovative sustainable transportation technology solutions."

GM donated $9 million to the institute, where students will get "a real-world introduction to what is changing the auto industry." Engineering students will work with engine systems to improve efficiency, develop ways to employ advanced materials in practical vehicle applications, and participate in GM's Advanced Battery Coalition for Drivetrains program.

TheCD's take: A great opportunity for those looking to do a lot of R&D and likely land a job with the General after graduation.

Source: GM