Hope, Hype and Headlines: Science in the News Media
Speaker: Tom Sheldon
Senior Press Manager, Science Media Centre
The Science Media Centre is an independent press office for the UK scientific community. It exists to help ensure that science and engineering in the UK national news is reported accurately and responsibly, particularly when a story has the potential for controversy. They give journalists the opportunity to speak to real experts, and actively encourage scientists to speak out when stories break. They also run regular press briefings which allow scientists and engineers to set the news agenda on important subjects of public interest. Although independent, the SMC is unashamedly pro-science and has no public ‘brand’ to promote.
Tom will talk about the work of the SMC in engaging scientists and journalists to help ensure the news is accurate and evidence-based. He will give examples of scientists influencing the news, discuss how inaccuracies arise and what you can do about it, explain why fake news isn't the enemy you should be worried about, and argue that scientists need a constant presence in the news to maintain high levels of public trust.
Friday June 21 2019: 10:00
If you are based at the Universities of Reading, Leeds or Cambridge please join the seminar in one of the live seminar locations listed below.
Seminar Location: AGRIC 1L04 University of Reading
Live Broadcast Rooms:
Upper Chapel, Fairbairn House, University of Leeds
CAS Union Rd. Meeting room, University of Cambridge
If you are unable to join any of the Live Broadcasts you can join the seminar via Zoom or a recording of the seminar will be available on this page after the meeting.