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
Results of a randomised placebo-controlled trial into internet delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on use of child sexual abuse material … read more
The use of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is an international public health and child protection challenge. Researchers at the … read more
A conference abstract (not a published paper) presented at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference 2022 compares the … read more
Results of the phase 3 trial of lecanemab for early Alzheimer’s disease has been published in New England Journal of … read more
A report by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) looks at trends in egg, sperm, and embryo donation. … read more
A few journalists have asked us about the current COVID situation in China, so here are some comments from scientists … read more
A study published in Nature Metabolism looks at maternal diet and neurobehavioral effects in offspring. Dr Duane Mellor, Registered … read more
There have been reports that a child has died after being infected in a bacteria outbreak at a Surrey primary … read more
A study published in Science looks at a multivalent mRNA vaccine candidate against all known influenza virus subtypes. Dr … read more
Dementia research is at a tipping point. Earlier this year, an Alzheimer’s drug, Eisai’s lecanemab, demonstrated a small but clear … read more
The Prime Minister set out his plan for innovation in the UK in his speech to the CBI, meanwhile the … read more
Beginning on Sunday 6th November, the COP27 climate talks in Sharm el-Sheikh have now been drawn to a close. … read more
A conference abstract (not a published paper) presented at the European Breast Cancer Conference gives results from a 30-year analysis … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at the development of a clinical risk score prediction tool for dementia. … read more
A study published in Current Problems in Cardiology looks at air pollution and blood pressure in adolescence. Prof Kevin … read more
A review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews looks at the use of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. … read more
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) have published a report alleging that the government are “not prioritising significant threat” from animal … read more
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have released their draft guidelines on therapeutics for people with COVID-19. … read more
A study published in Cell Reports Medicine looks at leprosy bacteria and liver organ growth in armadillos. Prof Malcolm … read more