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, statistical analyses of scientific studies and Factsheets, in addition to running regular press briefings on the latest hot topic. Find our most recent Roundups and Rapid Reactions, briefings, Factsheets 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 ‘Briefing Notes’ on controversial topics, and guidelines on science and health reporting, and by working with the National Coordinator for Science Training for Journalists.
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
Research published in CELL describes a scoring system based on genetic markers that attempts to predict an individual’s risk for … read more
Expert reaction to media reports that a US scientist talking at a public meeting at Harvard University has said he … read more
The number of children living with serious illness is rising as medical technology allows us to sustain their lives. There … read more
Research published in PLOS ONE demonstrates that screen time above two-hours at five years of age is associated with an … read more
Research published in Nature describes a system that can restore brain circulation and some cellular functions in a pig brain … read more
Research published in International Journal of Epidemiology argues that people who eat red and processed meat within department of health … read more
Over 850,000 people in the UK are living with dementia – most of them still at home. Obviously lots of … read more
Research published in PLOS Medicine suggests that late pregnancy ultrasounds could eliminate undiagnosed breech presentation of babies and improve the … read more
Reactions to the fire that damaged the Notre Dame Cathedral Andy Dark, former London firefighter, fire health and safety expert … read more
Research published in HEART demonstrates that half of patients prescribed statins in primary care fail to reach ‘healthy’ cholesterol levels … read more
Research published in Nature Geoscience suggests that microplastics can reach and affect remote areas through atmospheric transport. Dr Ben Williams, … read more
Reactions to news of the birth of a baby through mitochondrial DNA transfer in Greece. A spokesperson for the Human … read more
New research carried out by the University of Southampton and King’s College London has looked into whether Cognitive Behavioural Therapy … read more
Research published in the BMJ demonstrates that stress related disorders are associated with multiple types of cardiovascular disease. Dr Katja … read more
Research published in The Lancet Planetary Health suggests that pollution guidelines may need to be re-evaluated as a reduction in … read more
Research published in Annals of Internal Medicine demonstrate that use of dietary supplements was not associated with mortality benefits among … read more
Research published in Nature Neuroscience describes a technique of noninvasive brain stimulation that resulted in improvement in working memory of … read more
Reactions to news that an ultra-low emission zone will be introduced in London on Monday 8th April. Prof Jonathan Grigg, … read more
It has previously been claimed that a small amount of alcohol might protect against stroke. A new genetic study of … read more
Research published in Psychological Science analyses suggested links between screen use and psychological well-being in adolescents. Dr Max Davie, Officer … read more