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 flash floods in Nepal. On the barrier lake: Prof Maria Shahgedanova, Professor of Climate Science at the … read more
A study published in Cell Metabolism looks at the Keto diet and its associated health benefits compared to other weight-loss … read more
Scientists comment on an open letter to the DESNZ Secretary of State urging strict conditions if Rosebank and Jackdaw oil … read more
A final regulatory approval decision on the Jackdaw gas field and Rosebank oil field is expected in the coming weeks … read more
An RCT published in The Lancet Psychiatry looks at a trial of Open Dialogue vs standard NHS treatments for adults … read more
Scientists comment on a press release from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) about the use of … read more
Scientists comment on a French court ruling that claims cosmic radiation was a factor in an air stewardess case of … read more
Scientists comment on news that Meta has settled a court case and agreed to pay billions of dollars and implement … read more
A study published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia looks at HRT and the risk of dementia in postmenopausal women. Prof Aimee … read more
To protect against shingles which causes painful rashes to spread over the body, the recombinant Shingrix vaccine is available on … read more
A study published in Nature Medicine looks at the recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix) and the risk of cardiovascular events. Prof … read more
Cochrane have published an update of their review looking at trials examining smoking cessation tools – including vaping, nicotine gums, … read more
An updated review published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews looks at e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. Prof Richard Holland, Professor … read more
Scientists comment on estimates from Macmillan and reported exclusively by PA on the number of men living with prostate cancer … read more
Scientist comment on El Nino and its impact on UK climate following a blog from the Met Office. Dr Amulya … read more
An opinion piece and literature review published in The Lancet looks at the risk of amyloid beta transmission through transfused blood products. … read more
While the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) initial report into the Lewes train crash reports “a track geometry irregularity existed on the … read more
A review published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood looks at the impact of vaping on children. Dr … read more
Scientists comment on phase 3 results from the INTerpath-001 trial looking at an mRNA vaccine for melanoma. Sam Barrell, … read more
Scientists comment on the Channel 4 TV show ‘The Great ADHD Myth?’ Prof Katya Rubia, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, … read more