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, statistical analyses of scientific studies and Factsheets, in addition to running regular press briefings on the latest hot topic. Find our most recent Roundups and Rapid Reactions, briefings, Factsheets 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 ‘Briefing Notes’ on controversial topics, and guidelines on science and health reporting, and 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 institutions.
t: +44 (0)20 7611 8300
Research published in JAMA Pediatrics suggests that sexting is associated with sexual behavior and mental health difficulties, especially in younger … read more
Reactions to more reports of listeria cases following hospital food contamination. Dr Catherine Rees, Associate Professor in Microbiology, University … read more
The UK has had some success in decarbonising the electricity sector. But the gas we use for heating and cooking … read more
A report produced by the Institution of Engineering and Technology has assessed the possibility of using hydrogen in place of … read more
Research published in The BMJ suggests that gabapentinoids (drugs used for epilepsy, pain and anxiety) are associated with an increased … read more
Research published in the BMJ shows that increasing red meat intake, particularly processed red meat, is associated with a heightened … read more
Experts agree that what the world eats and the way we produce food is unsustainable and has to change, particularly … read more
Reactions to a review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews that summarizes evidence from research studies testing different … read more
Reactions to new government plan to cut the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions to almost zero by 2050. Prof Venki … read more
Reactions to a report from the WWF that comments on the amount of plastic an average person ingests from water. … read more
Research published in Cell Reports demonstrates that arterial hardening is caused be extracellular poly(ADP-ribose) inhibition of which may form a … read more
Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine shows that exposure to artificial light at night was associated with increased risk of … read more
A global analysis published in Nature Ecology and Evolution collates all plant extinction records documented from across the world. The … read more
Reactions to reports of listeria cases in hospitals as a result of pre-packed sandwiches. Prof Jose Vazquez-Boland, Chair of Infectious … read more
A conference abstract from the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology suggests that advanced glycation endproducts in junk food might explain … read more
Research published in Lancet Psychiatry demonstrates that for the most commonly used second-generation antidepressants, the lower range of the licensed … read more
The association between domestic abuse and depression and anxiety is well established. However, most work in this field is conducted … read more
Research published in British Journal of Psychiatry shows that women who suffer domestic abuse are three times more likely to … read more
Research published in Environmental Science & Technology demonstrates that in approximately 15% of Americans’ caloric intake, annual microplastics consumption ranges … read more
Research published in the Lancet Psychiatry suggests that suicide rates grew from around 2% to 6% of the population between … read more