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
Scientists react to a clinical trial of melanoma mRNA vaccines. Prof Lawrence Young, Professor of Molecular Oncology, University of … read more
Scientists react to a deepfakes and AI survey published by BCS. Dr Andrew Rogoyski, Director of Innovation and Partnerships … read more
A study published in the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology looks at food additive emulsifiers and risk of type 2 diabetes. … read more
Scientists react to questions raised about obesity drugs and fertility. Prof Ying Cheong, Professor of Reproductive Medicine and Honorary … read more
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine looks at the sex of physicians and risk of patient death. Dr Gavin … read more
Scientists react to the European State of Climate 2023 report. Dr Radhika Khosla, Associate Professor, Smith School of Enterprise … read more
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine looks at the effect of time-restricted eating on body weight. Dr Jacopo Scotucci, … read more
A study published in The BMJ looks at antipsychotic use in people with dementia. Dr Richard Oakley, Associate Director of … read more
Scientists react to claims that Dubai flooding was caused by cloud seeding. Dr Edward Gryspeerdt, Imperial’s Grantham Institute for … read more
A study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood looks at internet use, sleep, exercise and school absences. Prof Pete … read more
Scientists react to MPs debating the tobacco and vapes bill. Prof Stephen Holgate, MRC Clinical Professor Of Immunopharmacology & Honorary … read more
A study published in Nature Medicine looks at Prasinezumab and motor progression in Parkinson’s disease. The following comments were provided … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at adolescent smart phone use and sexual orientation and gender expression. Dr Emma … read more
A study published in The BMJ looks at a clinical trial of esketamine for mothers with prenatal depression symptoms. Dr Camilla … read more
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry looks at adolescent media use and psychosis during adulthood. Dr Simona Skripkauskaite, Senior Postdoctoral Researcher … read more
Several reviews have been published looking at puberty blockers and gender dysphoria in children. Dr Gavin Stewart, Senior Lecturer … read more
Scientists react to the Cass Review final report. Dr Roman Raczka, President-Elect of the British Psychological Society, said: “We … read more
Scientists react to the death of Professor Peter Higgs. Professor Frank Close OBE FRS, Professor Emeritus of Theoretical Physics … read more
A study published in Nature Immunology looks at long Covid subtypes and inflammatory signs. Prof Eleanor Riley, Professor Emerita, Immunology and … read more
Two UK-wide research programmes, PHOSP-COVID and ISARIC-4C, have been following people who were hospitalised with Covid and went on to … read more