Program Overview

Program Overview

The MRes Materials in Fusion Energy program at the University of Birmingham is designed to equip students with advanced scientific knowledge, concepts, and skills for a career in the nuclear sector. The program focuses on nuclear fusion solutions and prepares students for research or technology roles in materials science and engineering.

Course Structure

The program consists of 180 credits distributed over 1 year, with one-third of the content consisting of taught modules and two-thirds of the content being an individual research project. The course is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer Research Project.

Autumn Term

In the Autumn term, students are paired with a personal supervisor and deepen their academic foundation through relevant taught modules while beginning research for their MRes dissertation. All examinations take place during the May/June examinations period.

Spring Term

The Spring term continues with taught modules and research preparation.

Summer Research Project

The Summer Research Project is a 120-credit individual research project carried out under the direction of a project supervisor, providing students with the opportunity to work one-to-one with a leading expert in their field.

Course Highlights

• Ranked 4th in the UK for Materials Technology (Complete University Guide 2026)
• Ranked in the top 10 for Engineering research in the UK for GPA and 4* research (REF 2021)
• Strong industry connections, including with the nuclear industry and the UK Atomic Energy Authority
• World-leading facilities, including two particle accelerators

Module Information

The program consists of approximately one-third taught modules and two-thirds individual research project. The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change:

• Advances in Materials and Manufacturing for Nuclear Environments (20 credits)
• Fusion (10 credits)
• Introduction to Materials Science (10 credits)
• Irradiation Materials Science (10 credits)
• Material and Manufacturing certification, intellectual property and project management (10 credits)
• Individual Research Project (120 credits)

Teaching Staff

The program is led by Professor Enrique Jimenez-Melero, MRes programme coordinator and UKAEA Joint Chair in Materials for Fusion.

Research Themes

The School of Metallurgy and Materials has research interests in the following areas:

• Advanced Materials Processing
• Materials for Sustainability
• Nuclear Robotics
• High Temperature Materials
• Ceramic Matrix Composites
• Surface Engineering
• Corrosion and Cracking
• Microstructure Characterisation and Modelling
• Plant Life

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham, students will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course. The application will be reviewed by the course's Admissions Tutor.

• 2:1 Honours Degree in a physical science or engineering subject
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band

Fees and Scholarships

• Full-time: £5,181
• Part-time: £2,591 The University offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to help students afford their studies.

Application Process

To apply for the program, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online. Applications are accepted all year round, but students are encouraged to apply by 1 June for a September start.

Career Opportunities

The program addresses the current skills shortage in the nuclear industry, training high-quality graduates who will be highly sought after. The research component of the program also equips students for further study, including pursuing a PhD.

Student Experience

At Birmingham, students will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life. The University offers a range of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, and all the support and advice students need.