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.
A study published in the Critical Reviews in Food Science & Nutrition looks at the risks and benefits of vegan diets in … read more
Scientists comment on the UK Health Security Agency’s flu and COVID-19 surveillance report. Prof Antonia Ho, Professor and Honorary … read more
Scientists comment on the latest NHS data on the current flu season. Prof Ed Hutchinson, Professor of Molecular and … read more
Scientists comment on reports that campaigners are beginning legal action to halt the Pathways trial of puberty blockers. Prof … read more
A systematic review and network meta-analysis published in Lancet Psychiatry looks at antidepressant deprescribing strategies. Prof Christiaan Vinkers, psychiatrist and Professor … read more
Antidepressants are an effective treatment for moderate to severe depression and anxiety. Once patients are better, they may choose to … read more
A study published in Nature looks at fasting and hormone therapy response for breast cancer in mice. Dr Charlie Birts, Lecturer … read more
A study published in Nature looks at the gut microorganisms associated with markers of health. Dr Fred Warren, Group Leader, … read more
A study published in Ageing looks at looks at a compound found in cocoa and biological ageing. Dr Dimitrios Koutoukidis, Associate … read more
A study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research looks at outcomes from dual use of cigarettes and vapes. Prof Caitlin … read more
Scientists comment on a sperm donor carrying a cancer causing gene mutation used to conceive children. Prof Allan Pacey, … read more
Climate change and extreme weather are stressing our bridges and flood defences. Our aging roads and water systems are strained from rising demand. Many … read more
A study published in The Lancet Planetary Health looks at an association between prenatal BPA exposure and early childhood behaviour. … read more
A study published in the NEJM looks at universal base-edited CAR7 T cells for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Dr Rubina … read more
A study published in PNAS looks at PFAS-contaminated drinking water and harms in infants. Dr Ovokeroye Abafe, Lecturer in Environmental Sciences, Civil … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at home-based gamma transcranial alternative current stimulation for Alzheimer’s Disease. Dr Sheona Scales, … read more
Scientists comment on the US CDC vaccine panel voting to end Hepatitis B vaccine recommendations for newborn babies. Dr … read more
Scientists comment on a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announcement that a new mpox strain has been identified in England. … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at PFAS exposure and endocrine disruption in women. Prof Oliver Jones, Professor of … read more
Scientists comment on reports of an IT outage at Edinburgh Airport. Rimesh Patel, a member of the Institution of … read more