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
There have been reports this morning that Dr Mike McKean, vice-president of policy at the RCPCH, has said: “Without a doubt, … read more
It has been reported that the Nova Kakhovka dam in the Russian-controlled area of southern Ukraine has collapsed. Dr … read more
A study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood looks at breastfeeding duration and educational achievement in England. Prof … read more
A report published by the Institute of Economic Affairs looks at whether COVID-19 lockdowns ‘worked’. Prof John Edmunds, Professor … read more
A study published in Nature Neuroscience suggests that psychedelics promote plasticity by directly binding to BDNF receptor TrkB. Dr … read more
Results of a trial looking at the use of ropinirole hydrochloride for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis have been published in Cell … read more
An observational study published in Sleep Health looks at the association between sleep duration and sleeping pill use, with mortality … read more
In a statement published on the Centre for AI Safety website, AI experts and public figures express their concern about … read more
In an interview for BBC Radio 4’s podcast ‘Fever: The Hunt for Covid’s Origin’, the former head of China’s Centre … read more
A study published in PNAS looks at dietary flavanols and hippocampal-dependent memory in older adults. This Roundup accompanied an SMC … read more
A large-scale RCT of over 3,500 healthy older adults indicates that a diet low in flavanols, found in tea and … read more
A tweet from Neuralink states that they have received the FDA’s approval to launch their first-in-human clinical study. Prof … read more
The Chancellor has announced a package of measures to boost UK life sciences. Dr Flic Gabbay, President of the … read more
The review by Lord O’Shaughnessy has been published as part of the package of announcements on life sciences growth in … read more
A meta-analysis published in the European Heart Journal looks at vegetarian and vegan diets and blood lipids. Dr Duane … read more
Results from a trial looking at ketamine versus ECT for nonpsychotic treatment-resistant major depression have been published in the NEJM. … read more
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry looks at cannabis use disorder and subsequent risk of depression and bipolar disorder. … read more
The Fifty-Fourth Report of Session 2022–23’ on Alcohol treatment services has been published by the House of Commons Committee of … read more
A new paper published in Nature Sustainability examines the ‘human climate niche’ – the temperature range in which the vast … read more
A study published in Nature Sustainability attempts to quantify the human cost of global warming. This Roundup accompanied an SMC … read more