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Scientists comment on a press release from Grail and presented at ASCO on unpublished results from the NHS-Galleri trial. … read more
Two studies published in The Lancet look at a blood test and new brain scan for detecting early biomarkers for Alzheimer’s Disease. … read more
Last year the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) conducted an updated review of evidence for prostate cancer screening to … read more
Scientists comment on a final recommendation for a national screening programme for prostate cancer from the UK National Screening Committee … read more
Journalists came to hear from researchers in the UK who are leading efforts to rapidly develop vaccines and therapeutics for … read more
Scientists comment on topline results from a phase III clinical trial of the hormone receptor agonist Retatrutide. Prof Graham … read more
We asked some scientists with expertise in hantavirus and/or public health responses to viruses and infectious diseases to sit on … read more
A study published in the European Heart Journal looks at preservative food additives and blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Rachel Richardson, … read more
A meta-analysis published in The BMJ looks at evidence for vitamin D supplementation to prevent fractures and falls in older people. … read more
A study published in Cell Reports Physical Science looks at volatile organic compound exposure from recreational vehicles and health implications. … read more
Scientists comment on the Enhanced Games starting this week. Dr Catherine Norton, Associate Professor Sport & Exercise Nutrition, University … read more
A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine uses Mendelian randomisation to look at associations between exercise and cardiovascular health. … read more
Scientists comment on the genomes of the Bundibugyo virus from the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda. Dr … read more
Scientists comment on the fourth case of meningitis in Reading. Prof Andrew Pollard, Director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, … read more
Scientists comment on a press release from Colossal Biosciences announcing that chicks have been hatched from an artificial egg system. … read more
A study published in JAMA Neurology looks at football heading and elevations in blood biomarkers of neural damage. Dr Peter Theobald, … read more
A follow-up of an RCT published in JAMA Network Open looks at vitamin D3 supplementation during pregnancy and cognitive performance of … read more
Scientists comment on the latest Hantavirus update from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on receiving doses of the antiviral … read more
Scientists comment on the World Health Organisation declaring the Ebola disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is determined … read more
Scientists comment on a meningitis cases confirmed in Reading. Dr Eliza Gil, Clinical Lecturer at the London School of … read more