BSURE (Birmingham Summer Undergraduate Research Experience) 2026

This initiative is aimed at talented students from under-represented groups, providing them with a rare opportunity to experience postgraduate study. Participants will have the chance to engage in advanced research alongside a team of esteemed academic members and PhD students at the University of Birmingham's School of Computer Science.

Throughout the programme, participants will get a taste of life as a graduate research student in Birmingham. The programme includes a series of skill-building workshops encompassing AI research seminars, academic writing, and literature reviews. Our objective is to foster each student's development, boosting their confidence and skills, and providing a wealth of experience that will not only enhance their CVs but also equip them for pursuing research-oriented roles in industry or academia.

The programme aims to provide approximately 5 opportunities to eligible candidates. We encourage applications from talented individuals who may find pursuing postgraduate studies challenging, due to reasons other than academic ability.

What to expect?

BSURE is a meticulously structured eight-week in-person programme designed to introduce undergraduate students to scientific research, with a specific focus on artificial intelligence.

As a participant, you can expect to :

• Conduct an AI research project with academic members and PhD students.
• Attend workshops to improve AI research skills.
• Network with renowned researchers, faculty, and graduate students.
• Participate in social events to build community and collaboration.
• Enhance your CV and prospects for further postgraduate research or PhD programmes

At the end of the programme, the students will present their research findings and submit a research report. Throughout, participants have access to extensive resources, including labs and workshops, and receive post-program support in career and postgraduate program applications, preparing them for future academic and professional pursuits in AI.

What does BSURE offer?

BSURE provides a paid eight-week opportunity, with financial and social benefits for participants that include:

• approximately £3,000 funding for the duration of the programme.
• covers the travel expenses incurred for travelling to and from Birmingham (from within the UK or Ireland) at the start/end of the programme.
• 8 weeks of free accommodation at the University of Birmingham.
• funding for social activities.

Timeline and key dates

• Applications open: 16 February 2026
• Application deadline: 31 March 2026, 12:00 UK time
• Interviews: from 20 April 2026
• Decision notification: End of May
• BSURE Programme duration: 6 July 2026 - 28 August 2026

Contact

For queries on application, please contact Dr Sharu Jose (s.t.jose@bham.ac.uk), Dr Huiping Chen (h.chen.13@bham.ac.uk), or Dr Baturalp Buyukates (b.buyukates@bham.ac.uk).