Biomedical Research MRes

Available streams:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Immunology
• Inflammation and Ageing
• Neurogenetics
• Neuropharmacology
• Endocrinology and Metabolism

Studying Biomedical Research will equip you with critical skills to understand and address health challenges, drive innovation in treatments, and improve healthcare outcomes. It'll empower you to make impactful contributions to medicine, shaping a future of discovery and societal benefit.

Cardiovascular Sciences Stream

The Cardiovascular Sciences stream equips you with a broad foundation in cardiovascular biology, while introducing you to the cutting-edge research driving advances in this field.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, as reported by the World Health Organization. This stream develops extensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying these conditions, with the goal of advancing the development of more effective treatments and interventions.

This stream offers a unique opportunity to engage with cardiovascular research and begin shaping your own future in biomedical science.

Stream lead - Dr Steve Thomas and Professor Neil Morgan

Apply now for MRes Biomedical Research: Cardiovascular Science

Immunology Stream

The development of immunotherapies has revolutionised the treatment of infection, cancer, autoimmunity and transplant rejection. This stream provides an in-depth understanding of the key concepts in immunology with a focus on how inappropriate immune responses may cause disease as well as how immune manipulation has evolved to become front-line treatments and therapeutic options for such immune-mediated diseases.

You'll explore the development of primary and secondary lymphoid structures and how T and B cells differentiate within these environments.  Cutting-edge knowledge will also be developed on the activation and functional diversity of T and B cell responses, including the formation of germinal centres, T helper cell differentiation and regulatory T cell function. The cellular requirements, molecules and associated signalling pathways, required for each of these processes will be covered. 

The later section of the module will build on and apply this knowledge to autoimmune disease, transplant and cancer immunobiology.

Stream lead – Dr Nick Jones 

Apply now for MRes Biomedical Research: Immunology

Neurogenetics Stream

Develop in-depth knowledge in the field of neurogenetics while gaining practical experience by working with a leading research group in our renowned research laboratories.

Neurogenetics is a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding brain function with relevance to all domains of human experience. Emerging from cutting-edge molecular-genetic technologies, neurogenetics is driving new discoveries of the mechanisms shaping brain structure and function at multiple scales from molecules to cells, neural circuits, behaviour and disease. This stream offers you an advanced exploration of neurogenetic approaches, the discoveries they are enabling, and the opportunity to undertake an independent neurogenetics research project within Birmingham's Centre for Neurogenetics.

This stream is ideal for students interested in the genetic foundations of brain function and the future of neurogenetics.

Stream lead – Dr Dan Fulton 

Apply now for MRes Biomedical Research: Neurogenetics

Neuropharmacology Stream

Neuroscience is one of the greatest opportunities for new drug discovery and development. This stream provides an in-depth exploration of the mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric conditions and neurotransmitter systems with the goal of understanding the challenges of developing more effective treatments and interventions.

The Neuropharmacology stream allows you to develop an appreciation of how current research into the neurotransmitter systems of the brain can further our understanding of normal brain function and dysfunction.

You’ll begin by considering some of the experimental techniques used in neuropharmacological research from the molecular to whole animal level. Then the distribution and functional relevance of the major neurotransmitters will be considered. Disorders of the nervous system, such as anxiety, depression, pain and dementia are used to illustrate how the integration of neurotransmitter action is important in normal functioning. 

Gain an appreciation for how interdisciplinary research helps us understand disease development and how dysfunction occurs. Finally, learn to recognize the complexity involved in developing new therapies within neuroscience.

Stream lead – Dr Zsuzsuanna Nagy

Apply now for MRes Biomedical Research: Neuropharmacology

Inflammation and Ageing Stream

Delivered by leading researchers from the University of Birmingham’s Department of Inflammation and Ageing this stream examines how ageing influences inflammatory disease risk and pathophysiology, highlighting key insights from cutting-edge translational research on-going within the College of Medicine and Health.

You’ll explore the biological links between ageing and inflammation across various diseases, gaining an understanding of how age-related processes drive inflammation and contribute to disease progression.

Stream leads – Dr Aaron Scott &  Dr Niharika Duggal

Apply now for MRes Biomedical Research: Inflammation and Ageing

Endocrinology and Metabolism Stream

The Endocrinology and Metabolism stream is primarily delivered by the Department of Metabolism and Systems Science at the University of Birmingham, one of the leading UK centres for endocrine and metabolic research. Our department is home to world-class researchers investigating the hormonal and metabolic regulation of health and disease, with major research strengths spanning diabetes, obesity, thyroid and adrenal disorders, bone and mineral metabolism, reproductive endocrinology, endocrine cancers, and systems-level metabolic regulation.

This stream provides an intensive, research-driven training environment for students wishing to develop advanced expertise in endocrinology and metabolism. Through a combination of taught modules and a substantial independent research project, students gain first-hand experience of cutting-edge biomedical research and the opportunity to contribute to impactful discoveries within an internationally recognised research environment. Furthermore, our researchers have access to state-of-the-art research facilities encompassing LC-MS/MS, NMR, and microscopy suites.

Over 12 months full-time, participants will develop high-level skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue doctoral research (PhD/MD) or research-focused careers in academia, the NHS, and the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries.

Stream leads - Dr Paul Foster and Dr Angela Taylor

Apply now for the MRes Biomedical Research: Endocrinology and Metabolism

Course Structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode. You'll select one of the six streams from the tabs below. 

While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study.

In the first semester, you'll undertake two taught modules. The first is a subject-specific module, providing a foundational understanding of key aspects of the field and introducing the topics and research questions that will underpin your projects. The second module focuses on honing and advancing your research skills.

In semesters two and three, you'll join one of the world-leading research labs in the College of Medicine and Health to carry out your focused research project.

What makes this course different?

Our programme immerses you in the fascinating world of biomedical research. It'll allow you to gain a broad range of research experience and to investigate molecular, physiological, and pathological processes that regulate human health and disease.

You'll gain hands-on experience in designing and conducting lab-based research projects, while also mastering a wide range of biomedical experimental techniques. Additionally, the programme provides training in essential research skills, including scientific writing, critical analysis of literature, presentation skills, and key experimental techniques used commonly across biomedical research.

You’ll benefit from being part of a cohort of students studying Biomedical Research across the six streams. This allows you to experience diverse perspectives, explore interdisciplinary learning and develop networking and collaborative skills.

• Tackle cutting-edge biomedical research questions that have real-world impact.
• Learn from top researchers who are leaders in their field.
• Become part of the College of Medicine and Health, one of the University of Birmingham's prestigious Research Centres.

Our College is globally recognised for its groundbreaking research in areas such cardiovascular sciences, neuropharmacology, neurogenetics, immunology and inflammation and ageing.

As part of the programme, you’ll have the opportunity to join a leading research group and gain access to state-of-the-art facilities. These include the Department of Biomedical Research, the Welcome Trust Clinical Research Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, and Birmingham City Hospital.

Benefit from the supportive atmosphere with this close-knit, welcoming programme that offers dedicated, personalised support from programme leaders and staff.

This course consists of two taught modules. You will also complete a research project.

Taught modules – provide you with a basic grounding in all aspects of your chosen area and introduce the topics and research questions on which your projects are to be based.

Research project - this is an eight-month laboratory-based research project, where you'll be supported by regular tutorials.

Assessment – taught modules are assessed using a mixture of essays and presentations. The research project is assessed through the submission of a thesis which will be examined by an internal and external examiner.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

Core Modules

2026/27 Session

The following must be taken:

Optional Modules

2026/27 Session

Students must choose one of the following modules:

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 or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 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.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

As part of your application you will be asked to submit a research proposal. For this programme research projects are selected during the 1st term of the course. Please therefore use this section of the form to tell us about your research interests in your selected stream.

Graduates of our MRes Biomedical Research programme are well-prepared for further research at PhD level. Additionally, they pursue graduate medicine courses and roles such as scientific and medical writing and hospital-based laboratory work. 

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

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. 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.