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 the PM’s decision to abolish NHS England. Prof Azeem Majeed FMedSci, Head of the Department of … read more
Scientists comment on a WHO report on the number of measles cases in Europe in 2024. Prof Helen Bedford, … read more
A study published in Psychological Medicine looks at self-reported experiences with antidepressants. Prof Sarah Bailey, Professor of Neuropharmacology and Engagement, … read more
A report published by the British Geological Survey looks at the UK’s demand for critical minerals. Prof Joan Cordiner … read more
A study published in BMJ Mental Health looks at the change in rates of ADHD prescriptions from April 2019-March 2024. … read more
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology looks at the possibility of microplastics contributing to AMR. Prof Shilpa Chokshi, … read more
A study published in PNAS looks at the potential relationship between microplastic pollution and photosynthesis activity. Prof Richard Lampitt, Research … read more
Scientists comment on the collision between a cargo vessel and an oil tanker in the North Sea. Simon Bray, … read more
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine looks at butter and plant based oils intake and mortality. Prof Sarah Berry, … read more
Scientists comment on Copernicus data reporting global sea ice cover is at a record low, and that February was the third warmest … read more
An observational study published in PLOS One looks at menopause symptom severity and late-life cognitive function and behavioural impairment. … read more
A study published in Nature suggests that Asprin enhances the immune response against cancer metastasis in mice. Dr Harvey Roweth, a … read more
A cohort study published in JAMA Network Open looks at the association between vaping and smoking cessation rates. Dr Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, … read more
An unpublished preprint uploaded to BioRXiv looks at gene editing in mice to create woolly mammoth-like hair phenotypes. Dr … read more
Scientists comment on the potential of a second norovirus wave. Dr Damien Tully, Associate Professor at the Medical Research Council/Uganda … read more
A modelling study published in Nature suggests that Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may withstand climate extremes. Dr Alessandro Silvano, Oceanographer, … read more
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an incurable, life-limiting condition, affecting over 11,300 people in the UK costing the NHS millions in … read more
New research published in Cell found a bat-infecting coronavirus can enter human cells in a similar way to COVID-19. Dr … read more
Scientists comment to an unknown disease breakout in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Dr Amanda Rojek, Senior Clinical … read more
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition looks at continuous glucose monitors in people without diabetes. Dr … read more