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.
The results of the BARCODE1 trial, published by The New England Journal of Medicine assesses the use of a polygenic risk … read more
Unlike other common cancers such as breast, bowel, and cervical cancers, there’s currently no nationwide screening programme for prostate cancer … read more
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMJ Medicine looks at stress management and relaxation techniques to manage high blood pressure. … read more
A study published in PLOS Medicine looks at food additives type 2 diabetes incidence. Dr Nerys Astbury, Associate Professor of Diet … read more
Scientists comment on the first baby being born from a womb transplant in the UK. Dr Nicola Williams, Wellcome … read more
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology looks at associations between maternal diabetes and neurodevelopmental outcomes … read more
Scientists comment on a case of Clade 1b Mpox in an individual with no links to other cases, as confirmed … read more
Two studies published in JAMA Neurology look at diabetes drugs and the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Comments on both studies: … read more
Scientists comment on the new Health Data Research Service, funded by the UK Government and the Wellcome Trust. Professor … read more
Scientists comment on DSIT research and development (R&D) spending allocations for 2025/2026. Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal … read more
Scientists comment on wildfires in Scotland and Dorset. Dr Maria Barbosa, wildfire scientist at the UK Centre for Ecology … read more
An observational study published in PLOS Global Public Health looks at screentime, sleep and depression in adolescents. Prof Ben Carter, … read more
A study published in Nature looks at the effect of the shingles vaccine (Zostvax) on dementia risk. Comments provided by our … read more
Scientists comment on a SACN statement on the WHO’s guideline on non-sugar sweeteners (NSS). Prof Oliver Jones, Professor of … read more
The Human Exposome Moonshot Project is a bold initiative to map how environmental exposures shape human health from conception to … read more
A report published by the British Ecological Society looks at regenerative agricultural practices in the UK. Prof Neil Ward, Professor … read more
Over the last decade the concept of regenerative agriculture has attracted increasing attention from farmers, governments and corporations as a … read more
An observational study published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry looks at LDL cholesterol levels, statins, and dementia risk. … read more
A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine looks at the effect of 4:3 intermittent fasting on weight loss. Dr … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at postpartum hormonal contraceptive use and depression risk. Dr John Reynolds-Wright, NES/CSO Clinical … read more