Program Overview

Immerse yourself in the field of natural computation with our MRes course. You'll develop a strong foundation for a research and development career in industry or academia.

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 highlights

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.

• Break new ground with our research in the theory and practice of computational systems and their applications
• 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

Course delivery

Benefit from instruction from our experts in the field. You'll be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, projects and practicals and 1:1 supervision.

• 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.