At Science News Today, we believe science journalism should be as trustworthy and thoughtful as the discoveries it covers. Every story we publish is guided by a single purpose: to bring science closer to people—with clarity, accuracy, and integrity.
We don’t just report scientific news. We translate complexity into meaning, data into understanding, and discovery into human stories. These editorial guidelines define the standards we live by—because in a world shaped by science, how we tell the story matters just as much as the story itself.
Truth Comes First
Our foundation is built on facts. Every article is carefully researched, sourced, and verified before publication. We rely on peer-reviewed journals, leading research institutions, and recognized subject-matter experts—not speculation, hype, or hearsay. If a story cannot be verified, it will not be published.
Science evolves—and so do we. When new information emerges or corrections are necessary, we update our stories promptly and transparently. Accuracy is not a one-time goal; it’s an ongoing responsibility to our readers and to science itself.
Transparent, Trusted Sources
We are open about where our information comes from. Whether it’s a landmark study, a NASA mission update, a university press release, or an interview with a researcher, we cite our sources clearly and link to original materials whenever possible. We want our readers to explore deeper, not simply take our word for it.
Anonymous sources are used only in rare and justified circumstances—for example, to protect whistleblowers or researchers facing credible risks. In such cases, we explain why anonymity was granted and how the information was verified.
Independence, Always
Science News Today is fiercely independent. Our editorial team decides what we cover, how we cover it, and why it matters—free from influence by advertisers, sponsors, or political agendas. Our editorial decisions are guided solely by scientific relevance, public interest, and our journalistic ethics.
When partnerships or sponsorships support specific projects, those relationships are disclosed clearly. Editorial independence and integrity are non-negotiable.
No False Balance
We do not “balance” science with misinformation. If 99% of scientists agree on a conclusion and 1% disagree without credible evidence, we will not present both positions as equally valid. Our role is to represent science accurately, not to create artificial controversy where none exists.
However, we embrace the uncertainty that is inherent in science. We report on emerging research, genuine debate, and areas where knowledge is still evolving—with context, caution, and care.
Science, Written for Humans
Science is not just equations or data—it’s a story about who we are, how we live, and where we’re going. We write in language that speaks to people, not textbooks. Our goal is to make science readable without oversimplifying, informative without overwhelming.
We want every reader—from high school students to professional researchers—to feel welcomed, informed, and inspired.
A Commitment to Representation
Science is global, diverse, and ever-changing—and our coverage reflects that. We actively seek out underrepresented voices, highlight research from across the world, and ensure our reporting avoids cultural or regional bias.
We believe science journalism is stronger when it reflects the full spectrum of humanity—its perspectives, innovations, and challenges.
Ethical Use of AI
At Science News Today, we embrace technology responsibly and ethically. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are used to support our journalism, never to replace it.
AI may assist with background research, data organization, grammar refinement, or preliminary drafting—but every story is conceived, written, and verified by humans. All AI-assisted content undergoes rigorous editorial review to ensure factual accuracy, context, and originality.
We never publish AI-generated material without meaningful human oversight. AI is treated as a tool, not a voice—it serves to enhance efficiency and clarity, never to compromise creativity, authenticity, or trust.
When AI tools play a substantive role—for example, in generating data visualizations, aiding translations, or summarizing technical studies—we disclose that involvement clearly to readers.
Our ethical use of AI is guided by four principles: transparency, accountability, human judgment, and absolute editorial control. The heart of our journalism will always remain human.
Our Promise to Readers
Science News Today is more than a publication—it’s a commitment to truth, curiosity, and public understanding. We strive to earn and maintain the trust of our readers through openness, responsibility, and respect for science.
If you ever notice an error, have a question about our editorial process, or wish to understand how a story was developed, we invite you to contact us. Every message is read and carefully considered.
Science deserves good storytelling. Readers deserve journalism they can trust. At Science News Today, we promise to deliver both—today, and every day.