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, Rapid Reactions and briefings 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.
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 and engineering institutions.
Scientists comment on a canal sinkhole at a canal in Shropshire. Dr Michael Branney, Emeritus Professor of Volcanology, University … read more
A report published in the European Heart Journal looks at nicotine and the cardiovascular system. Dr Jasmine Khouja, Lecturer in Psychology … read more
A study published in Neurology looks at the association between high fat cheese and dementia risk. Prof Eef Hogervorst, Professor of … read more
A study published in Nature looks at the prevalence of Alzheimer’s Disease pathology in the community. Prof Roslyn Bill, Professor of … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at the Planetary Health Diet and body fat in foetuses. Prof Tom Sanders, … read more
Scientists comment on UKRI budget allocations through to 2029/2030. Professor Andrew Morris CBE PMedSci, President of the Academy of … read more
A study published in the Lancet Public Health looks at oral nicotine pouch use in Great Britain. Prof Peter Hajek, Professor … read more
A systematic review published in Annals of Internal Medicine looks at saturated fat intake and cardiovascular events. Prof Nita Forouhi, … read more
A study published in the Critical Reviews in Food Science & Nutrition looks at the risks and benefits of vegan diets in … read more
Scientists comment on the UK Health Security Agency’s flu and COVID-19 surveillance report. Prof Antonia Ho, Professor and Honorary … read more
Scientists comment on the latest NHS data on the current flu season. Prof Ed Hutchinson, Professor of Molecular and … read more
Scientists comment on reports that campaigners are beginning legal action to halt the Pathways trial of puberty blockers. Prof … read more
Antidepressants are an effective treatment for moderate to severe depression and anxiety. Once patients are better, they may choose to … read more
A systematic review and network meta-analysis published in Lancet Psychiatry looks at antidepressant deprescribing strategies. Prof Christiaan Vinkers, psychiatrist and Professor … read more
A study published in Nature looks at fasting and hormone therapy response for breast cancer in mice. Dr Charlie Birts, Lecturer … read more
A study published in Nature looks at the gut microorganisms associated with markers of health. Dr Fred Warren, Group Leader, … read more
A study published in Ageing looks at looks at a compound found in cocoa and biological ageing. Dr Dimitrios Koutoukidis, Associate … read more
A study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research looks at outcomes from dual use of cigarettes and vapes. Prof Caitlin … read more
Scientists comment on a sperm donor carrying a cancer causing gene mutation used to conceive children. Prof Allan Pacey, … read more
Climate change and extreme weather are stressing our bridges and flood defences. Our aging roads and water systems are strained from rising demand. Many … read more