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. You can also find our previous ‘Before the Headlines’ analyses on the right, though we no longer provide the service.
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.
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.
A Cochrane review looks at calorie labelling and food choices. Dr Sally Moore, Lecturer in Nutritional Science; Registered Dietitian; … read more
Data published by the Met Office looks at the carbon dioxide forecast for 2025. Prof Kevin Anderson, Professor of … read more
UK legislation approved in 2021 and brought into force in 2022 require calorie information to be displayed on menus and … read more
More than one billion people are estimated to be living with obesity globally. A new global Commission on obesity is … read more
A global commission published in the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology looks at the definition and diagnosis of clinical obesity. Prof Simon … read more
Scientists comment on the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Louis Barson, Director of … read more
A glyphosate-resistant weed population have been identified on a farm in the UK. Glyphosate-resistance in weeds has been found elsewhere … read more
Scientists comment on Copernicus data that says 2024 is the warmest year on record and the first year to exceed 1.5 degrees. … read more
UK Biobank are launching the world’s largest study of the proteins circulating in our bodies, which they say will transform … read more
Scientists comment on Los Angeles wildfires. Prof Apostolos Voulgarakis, Professor in Global Climate and Environmental Change, Imperial College London, … read more
A study published in Nature Communications looks at dietary patterns in women and the risk of colorectal cancer. Dr David Nunan, … read more
A study published in Science Signalling looks at brain tissue injury in a dish, and the reactivation of latent HSV-1 virus that … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at maternal antidepressant and anti-Inflammatory medications and levels of nutrients in human breast milk. … read more
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics looks at the link between fluoride exposure and children’s IQ scores. Prof Kevin … read more
Scientists comment on cases of Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) reported in China. Prof Antonia Ho, Professor and Hononary Consultant of … read more
Scientists comment on high numbers of hospitalisations from flu, as reported by NHS England. Punam Mangtani, Professor in Epidemiology … read more
A study published in Wiley Cancer looks at the link between drinking coffee or tea and risk of head and neck … read more
Experts commented on the Government’s plans to completely ban neonicotinoids. Dr Philip Donkersley, Senior Researcher in Ecology and Evolution … read more
A study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia looks at the link between gut infection and risk of Alzheimer’s disease. … read more
A study in JAMA Network Open looks at self-reported physical function in long Covid patients after participating in an outpatient rehabilitation … read more