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
Reactions to a meta-analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry which demonstrates a correlation between cannabis use and depression/anxiety in young people. … read more
Cannabis is the most commonly used recreational drug by teenagers worldwide and while there has been a lot of focus … read more
Research published in JAMA Cardiology demonstrates that a low adherence to statin therapy was associated with a greater risk of … read more
Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine demonstrates that an increase in ultraprocessed food consumption appears to be associated with an … read more
Reactions to research published in Nature Medicine which demonstrates the application of AI and deep learning techniques to assist physicians … read more
Reactions to a study published in ERJ Open Research which claims that heat-not-burn eCig devices can alter lung function and … read more
Reactions to news that Professor Dame Sally Davies is stepping down as Chief Medical Officer for England. Professor Fiona Watt, … read more
Reactions to WHO report on figures of measles and vaccination in Europe. Prof Arne Akbar, President of the British Society … read more
Reactions to a Chief Medical Officer (CMO) report on the impact of screentime and social media use on young people. … read more
Reactions to data published by the UK Met Office suggesting the earth is in its warmest period on record. Prof … read more
Reactions to a letter from the Health Research Authority (HRA) to Norman Lamb MP on an inquiry into the PACE … read more
Reactions to research published in Human Reproduction that states men who had ever smoked marijuana had high sperm concentration and … read more
Reactions to a report published by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development on the challenges and related support enabling … read more
Reactions to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal which claims women who have undergone IVF treatment are more likely … read more
Most individual statin trials previously considered ‘elderly’ people those aged over 65 years of age. Due to advances in medicine, … read more
Reactions to meta-analysis published in The Lancet which claims Statin therapy causes reductions in vascular events regardless of age. There … read more
Reactions to the UK Science and Technology Committee report on the affect of social media and screen use on young … read more
Reactions to a debate published in the BMJ on the efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy on people with depression. Prof Kamilla … read more
Research published in the BMJ suggests that eating breakfast may not help with weight loss and could have the opposite … read more
Research published in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) demonstrates that E-cigarettes were more effective for smoking cessation than nicotine-replacement … read more