We are an international network of not-for-profit organisations working to improve the public understanding of science, by injecting evidence-based information into headline news, particularly on controversial or breaking science stories when most misinformation occurs. Independent of any one institution and our funders, we proactively champion evidence-based reporting and informed public decision-making.

The first SMC was established in the UK in 2002, with multiple centres now operating across the world according to our shared purpose and principles. We work autonomously with journalists and scientists in our own countries, but also share resources including expert quotes and access to press briefings. Each SMC in the global network has signed up to a Charter to ensure we follow common goals and principles of independence.

We believe the media will ‘do’ science better when scientists ‘do’ the media better.