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
The government have published the latest estimates for the COVID-19 R number and growth rates. Dr Yuliya Kyrychko, Reader … read more
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) have released the latest data from their COVID-19 Infection Survey in England, Wales and … read more
A review and opinion piece, published in The Lancet, looked at strategies for easing lockdown restrictions in Europe and Asia. … read more
A conference abstract, press released from the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Conference on Coronavirus Disease (ECCVID), … read more
The government have released the latest data on the number of new cases of COVID-19 in the UK. Prof … read more
A preprint, and unpublished non peer-reviewed study posted on medRxiv, looked at adherence to the test, trace and isolate system … read more
The NHS have released the latest annual childhood vaccination coverage statistics for England covering 2019-2020. Prof Helen Bedford, Professor … read more
NHS Test and Trace have released the latest figures from their work for the week 10th – 16th September. … read more
We hosted some of the experts involved in informing and advising on the NHS Test and Trace App – which … read more
Data from the ongoing UCL COVID-19 Social Study looked at public acceptance of a possible COVID vaccine Prof Stephan … read more
The government have released the latest figures for cases and deaths from COVID-19 in the UK. Dr Julian Tang, … read more
It has been reported that in January a COVID-19 challenge trial will start, in which participants are purposefully infected with … read more
A study, published in Nature, looked at the Antarctic ice sheet and sea level rise. Dr Helene Hewitt, a Met … read more
A study, published in Science of The Total Environment, looked at placentas and particles which may be from air pollution. … read more
The Chinese government have announced that they intend to reach carbon neutrality by the year 2060. Prof Piers Forster, … read more
A correspondence piece, published in Nature, discusses UK and EU scientific collaborations in light of COVID-19. Beth Thompson, Head … read more
A study, published in Thorax, looked at COVID-19 viral load of asymptomatic vs symptomatic people. Dr Julian Tang, Honorary Associate … read more
A review, published in PLOS Medicine, looked at the proportion of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 who develop symptoms. Dr Julian Tang, … read more
The government have confirmed that there were 4,926 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 om Tuesday 22nd September 2020. Prof … read more
In a statement to the House of Commons, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined the new restrictions being put in … read more