expert reaction to reports that smoking in beer gardens might be banned
Prof Nicholas Hopkinson, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, said: “Following the … read more
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
Prof Nicholas Hopkinson, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, said: “Following the … read more
Prof Malcolm Bennett, Professor of Zoonotic and Emerging Disease, University of Nottingham, said: “It must be good news for everyone … read more
A study published in The BMJ looks at the association between certain diabetes drugs and lower risk of developing dementia. … read more
A study published in Nature Communications looks at the feasibility of underground CO2 storage. Prof Stuart Haszeldine, Professor of Carbon Capture … read more
A report published by the British Medical Association offers recommendations for stronger vaping regulation. Prof Peter Hajek, Professor of … read more
As the global population is projected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, the demand for protein is expected to rise … read more
Scientists comment on a Science analysis of 1500 climate policies. Dr Ajay Gambhir, Visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Grantham Institute … read more
Scientists comment on both MHRA and NICE news on lecanemab for Alzheimer’s disease. Fiona Carragher, Chief Policy and Research … read more
With the announcement on 22nd August 2024 from the MHRA and NICE on lecanemab for Alzheimer’s Disease, journalists heard from … read more
A study in the Lancet Public Health modelled current and future deaths from hot and cold temperatures across Europe. Dr … read more
A study published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology looks at meat consumption and type 2 diabetes risk. Dr Duane … read more
Scientists comment on a yacht capsizing off the island of Sicily. Dr Jean-Baptiste Souppez, Senior Lecturer in Mechanical, Biomedical … read more
A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at semaglutide use and suicidality. Dr Riccardo De Giorgi, Clinical Lecturer in the … read more
A study published in Nature Human Behaviour looks at video gaming on mental well-being. Prof Pete Etchells, Professor of Psychology … read more
Scientists comment on reports of a case of Clade 1 Mpox in Sweden. Dr Jonas Albarnaz, a Research Fellow … read more
Scientists react to the WHO declaring Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Dr Brian Ferguson, Associate Professor … read more
Scientists comment on cases of the Oropouche virus in South America and Europe. Dr Philip Veal, Travel Health Consultant … read more
Scientists comment on a spill of sodium cyanide in a Walsall canal. Dr Andrew Shaw, Assistant Professor of Toxicology … read more
A study published in Health & Place looks at UV light exposure and mortality rates. Prof Brian Diffey, British Association of … read more
The State of Wildfires report takes stock of extreme wildfires of the 2023-2024 fire season, explains their causes and assesses … read more