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Course overview
Explore the exciting future promise of hydrogen, fuel cells and their applications. With a deep understanding of the science behind the technology, you will build your research skills and examine developments at the forefront of future energy supply.
While immersing you in the field of hydrogen technology, our course will help you deal with complex issues, make sound judgements and communicate conclusions to different audiences.
Course structure
This is a 1 year full-time advanced course. The programme can also be taken on a part-time basis over two years.
This term introduces you to the research project you will be undertaking throughout the duration of your studies. This can be experimental, modelling, desk work, or a mixture of the three. Alongside this you will choose six taught modules ranging from science basics to specialised topics. You can expect to engage in recorded lectures and live tutorials, where you can ask questions, work on problems, and participate in discussions. All lectures are accompanied by quizzes to allow you to check on your knowledge. The assessment differs in the modules, but is mainly based on coursework and class tests. Only a few modules run winter (after the Christmas break) or summer exams.
Course highlights
As we move towards a zero-emissions world, you will learn about the potential of hydrogen and fuel cells in contributing to the decarbonisation of the energy system. You will also examine the issues faced by organisations developing products from vehicles to generators. Prepare to make a significant impact in this evolving energy sector.
- Learn from leading experts how fuel cells can contribute to global energy sustainability, benefiting humanity.
- Develop highly transferable skills and knowledge, supported by industry connections, enhancing employability across diverse career paths.
- Foster your entrepreneurial spirit with insights from our three spin-out companies in hydrogen and fuel cells.
Be part of the largest academic research community in fuel cell technology in the UK.
Benefit from high quality teaching from leading academics in the field of fuel cell and hydrogen technology.
This course is within the Sustainable Power Generation and Supply of the Research Councils’ Energy Programme, the first of its kind in the UK.
Course delivery
The Centre for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Research leads on teaching in this programme, offering you an insight into cutting edge science and technology. This MRes programme comprises of a research project, underpinned by taught modules.
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields.
- Engage in tutorials that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning.
- Experience increased engagement and motivation with 1:1 supervision, held in a supportive environment where you feel valued throughout your academic journey.
- Develop critical technical and analytical skills, including experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem-solving, and familiarise yourself with specialised equipment and techniques through laboratory work.
- Enjoy the flexibility and accessibility of online on-demand and live classes, allowing you to access lectures and course materials at your convenience, accommodating various schedules and preferences.
Lecture
Tutorial
1:1 Supervision
Laboratory
Module information
This course consists of 120 credits, half from taught modules and half from your research project. The dissertation is completed under the direction of a project supervisor which will give you the opportunity to work one-to-one with a leading expert in their field.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2025/26
Choose 60 credits from taught modules:
Teaching staff
Professor Robert Steinberger-Wilckens
Professor in Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Research
Professor Robert Steinberger-Wilckens staff profile
Professor Shangfeng Du
Professor of Electrochemical Engineering
Shangfeng Du, Professor of Electrochemical Engineering, University of Birmingham
Research themes
The Birmingham Centre for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Research, nationally and internationally recognised for expertise in fuel cells, the Centre focuses on research and development, applications and demonstrations of fuel cell and hydrogen systems and technologies.
The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in for Fuel Cells and their Fuels builds on the success of the 'Hydrogen, Fuels Cells and Their Applications' centre, which was established in 2009 in collaboration with the Midlands Energy Consortium (MEC.) Drawing upon expertise and research facilities at the University of Birmingham, Loughborough University, the University of Nottingham, Imperial College London and University College London, the CDT is a flagship collaboration undertaking research in a breadth of fuel cell related fields.
By exploring global energy problems, our aim is to train a new generation of scientists and engineers to address interdisciplinary challenges involved in the transition to a sustainable energy future. To achieve this, within the CDT we are investigating the wide range of fuels used in fuel cells today. This includes direct use of natural gas, ethanol, gasification syn-gas and other biomass products in addition to hydrogen.
The School of Chemical Engineering at Birmingham is one of the three largest centres for the postgraduate education of chemical engineers in the UK. We have pioneered development and research in rapidly expanding new areas such as pharmaceuticals and bioproducts, food processing, hydrogen fuel cells and energy research.
Entry requirements
Research proposal
If you are proposing your own research topic, you will need to submit a research proposal. It’s a key part of your application, so take your time. Your potential supervisors will use it to decide if your research is something they can support.
Your proposal should be a clear and concise summary of your research. It generally consists of an outline of your proposed research project, including your main research questions and the methods you intend to use.
You should also comment on the potential impact and importance of your intended research and on how your work would interact with current trends in your academic field. It should illustrate the relevance of your topic to the research interests and expertise of the staff within your chosen department.
- 2:2 Honours Degree
In a relevant subject (eg, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Physics or Mathematics)
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill
Fees and scholarships
- £4,921
Full-time
- £2,461
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
A limited number of scholarships and studentships may be available to outstanding applicants. For further information, please explore our scholarships and funding database.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
If you are applying to an ‘advertised PhD’, please check the details of the specific research project for application deadlines.
If you are submitting your own research proposal, applications are accepted all year round. However, if you wish to start in September, we would encourage you to apply by 1 June. Whilst you are still welcome to apply after this date, it is important to allow time for us to review your application.
If you are seeking funding, please be aware that the majority of funding opportunities have deadlines in early spring so we would encourage you to apply as early as possible.
We have put together some helpful information on the research programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
You'll develop exceptional numeracy, problem-solving, team-working, communication, and information technology skills, preparing you for leading roles within and beyond the process and allied industries. The course supports entrepreneurial spirit, with three spin-out companies in hydrogen and fuel cells founded.
Careers Network
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one to one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters.
As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll benefit from tailored support to prepare you for a career in academia or set you up for a wide range of other professions.
We also offer subject specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll have a variety of choices of accommodation. Stay with us in our dedicated postgraduate halls or explore a wide range of private accommodation close to campus.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.