When science hits the news agenda, it’s our job to pass on to journalists as much accurate information as we can, as quickly as possible. In order to do this we send out quotes from experts and statistical analyses of scientific studies, in addition to running regular press briefings on the latest hot topics. Find our most recent Roundups and Rapid Reactions, briefings and ‘Before the Headlines’ analyses below, or use the icons on the right.
As well as working with experienced specialist reporters, we also provide support to new reporters, editors and generalists through a series of publications, including guidelines on science and health reporting, and formerly by working with the National Coordinator for Science Training for Journalists (with resources now hosted by the Royal Statistical Society).
see publications for journalists
Need an expert to interview? The SMC’s database is not quite like any other. Those on it are selected not just for their proven expertise, but also for their willingness and ability to engage with the media when their area of work hits the headlines. The quality of our experts is important to us. The SMC recruits scientists, engineers and others who work for respected institutions, publish in peer-reviewed journals and have a track record of quality research in their specialist field.
The SMC was established to provide assistance to the national news media when covering controversial science stories or breaking news. As such the SMC’s priority remains to support new reporters at UK national news media outlets. We prioritise working with science, health and environment specialists on controversial news pieces, but also provide support for journalists pursuing original and long-form pieces by advising on the best experts to approach and helping to set up visits to institutions.
You can get in touch with using the details below. Please be aware though, if your enquiry does not fit our remit we may not be able to help or may refer you on to external scientific institutions.
t: +44 (0)20 7611 8300
Scientists comment on new data published by Copernicus on July 2024 temperature data. Dr Friederike Otto, Co-founder of World Weather … read more
Scientists react to NICE final draft guidance on Casgevy for the treatment of beta-thalassaemia. Dr James Davies, Associate Professor … read more
A perspective article published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association looks at challenges for new Alzheimer’s drugs. … read more
A study published in People & Nature looks at a badger vaccination programme for bovine TB. Prof Malcolm Bennett, Professor of … read more
Findings published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology looks at the NHS soups and shakes diet for diabetes remission. Dr … read more
Two studies published in the BMJ Mental Health and Acta Paediatrica looks at problematic smart phone use in young people. … read more
Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) describes a set of behaviours such as finding it hard to control smartphone use, feeling uncomfortable … read more
A study published in the Lancet Psychiatry looks at cognitive and psychiatric symptoms after COVID-19 related hospitalisation. Prof Dame Til Wykes, … read more
A longitudinal prospective cohort study of 475 participants from the PHOSP-COVID cohort – who had been hospitalised with severe acute … read more
A report published in the Lancet looks at dementia prevention, intervention and care. Dr Sarah-Naomi James, Senior Research Fellow, MRC Unit … read more
A conference abstract presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference looks at red meat intake and dementia risk. Dr Richard … read more
Scientists react to findings presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2024 about continuous treatment with lecanemab. Prof … read more
A conference abstract at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference looks at weight loss drug liraglutide and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr … read more
Scientists comment on an editorial about the use of of psychotropic medication in young people. Dr Carmen Moreno, Department … read more
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine looks at semaglutide and tobacco use in people with type 2 diabetes. Rachel … read more
A study published in BMC Medicine looks at short term vegan diets and ageing. Prof Tom Sanders, Professor emeritus of Nutrition … read more
Scientist comment on the EMA decision on the use of lecanemab for Alzheimer’s disease. Prof Robert Howard, Professor of … read more
A study published in Nature Medicine looks at the shingles vaccine and risk of dementia. Prof Tara Spires-Jones, FMedSci, President … read more
Shingles is a painful and serious condition afflicting many elderly people. It is caused by the Herpes zoster virus that … read more
The State of the UK Climate 2023 report provides the latest comprehensive review of the UK’s changing climate. It examines … read more