Natural Computation MRes

Delve into the multidisciplinary area of computational systems that use ideas and gain inspiration from natural systems. Learn what’s involved with becoming a scientific researcher as our course combines core principles with innovative research.

Course Structure

This multidisciplinary area is the study of computational systems that use ideas and gain inspiration from natural systems. The MRes programme explores current topics in natural computation, such as evolutionary algorithms, co-evolution, evolutionary design, nature-inspired optimisation techniques, evolutionary games, novel learning algorithms, artificial neural networks/deep learning and theory of natural computation.

• Study computational systems inspired by nature, covering evolutionary algorithms, nature-inspired optimisation, and artificial neural networks
• Work on an in-depth research project, often industry-driven, to investigate a chosen topic in natural computation
• Gain transferable knowledge through our compulsory Research Skills module that will equip you for research-oriented careers in industry or academia

• The compulsory module Experiment Design, Evaluation Methods and Statistics provides you with the basis of transferable knowledge and skills necessary for a successful research-oriented career in industry or academia, with a particular orientation to computing-based disciplines
• Your research thesis project consists of solving a substantial problem using natural computation techniques (including hybrid techniques). Industrial co-supervisors are used whenever appropriate, and you'll be required to apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to solve a difficult problem
• Benefit from 1:1 supervision that offers personalised learning which gives you the opportunity to get tailored guidance and feedback that meets your individual needs

We have dedicated Computer Science Student Experience Officers and Student Wellbeing Officers, whose sole job is to ensure our students are supported, both physically, mentally and holistically with their studies and life as a computer science student. 

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.

The following must be taken:

Choose 20 credits from the following modules:

Artificial Intelligence

The Intelligent Robotics Lab in the School of Computer Science at the University has a history of working on basic and applied research projects at the intersection of AI, robotics, and machine learning. Our researchers have expertise in computer vision, knowledge representation and reasoning, cognitive systems, interactive learning, formal verification, and dexterous manipulation. Our research projects and educational initiatives are funded by competitive grants from funding agencies and industrial collaborators in the UK, EU, US, and other countries.

Security and Privacy

The Security and Privacy Group, led by Professor Mark Ryan, is a team of eleven academic staff based in the School of Computer Science at the University. For over a decade, the group has remained committed to its ethos of tackling cyber security problems that are important to society. Working in collaboration with academia, industry and government, the Group consistently produces internationally leading research on key issues that has led to recognition by GCHQ as an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research.

Human Computer Interaction

The Human-Computer Interaction Centre based at the University focuses on a people-centred perspective on interaction and technology; it leads the development of our understanding on how people interact with technologies, and how one transforms the other.

Theory of Computation Sciences

Theoretical Computer Science at Birmingham is one of the largest research groups in the world to focus on the logical foundations of computer science. Much of our work makes use of techniques such as category theory, type theory, topology, domain theory, and game semantics, which we apply to deep and conceptual questions in a broad range of areas.

This is a highly selective Masters programme and only a limited number of places are available.

The MRes in Natural Computation is research-oriented, and includes two mini-projects and a summer project, written in the style of a peer-reviewed scientific journal paper. Your application should include two sides of A4 with research interests and tentative ideas that you plan to develop for these three projects. They should normally be close to the research interest of the School (please consult the web pages of lecturers, professors and research staff).

Once you are admitted, you will have an opportunity to revise or change your research plans after discussion with your project supervisors. But it is important at application time to know that you are interested and have potential skills for research, as well as some tentative plans. The Statement of Research is an opportunity for you to demonstrate this.

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

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.

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.

ATAS - Academic Technology Approval Scheme

International students applying for this programme will need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office before the University can issue you with a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS). We recommend that you apply for your ATAS certificate as soon as you receive an offer from us.

The course will provide a solid foundation in the theory and application of natural computation methods as well as transferable knowledge and skills necessary for a successful research-oriented career in industry or academia.

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.

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.