Oxford Martin School researchers played a key role in contributing scientific research for ‘Coronavirus: The Science Explained’, a website created by UK Research & Innovation (UKRI).

The website provides the most authoritative scientific information available on the constantly evolving Coronavirus outbreak. It hosts a number of short articles, written by leading scientists – some of whom are currently advising government as part of the SAGE committee on its approach to tackling the pandemic. It is intended to be a reliable data source for interested parties across the UK - from the general public seeking more information on the virus, to researchers in related fields who think their own research may be able to make a useful contribution to the response.

Oxford Martin School academics Professor Sir Charles Godfray, Professor Chris Dye, and Professor Oliver Pybus have contributed to articles featured on the website, with Dye also taking the role of Editor.

UKRI Chief Executive, Sir Mark Walport said, “Throughout this crisis it’s vital that people have access to up-to-date scientific information and evidence. Coronavirus: The Science Explained is uniquely positioned to provide the latest science behind coronavirus in accessible language, offering a trusted and impartial resource to anyone who needs it. We are enormously grateful to the experts from Oxford University who have contributed to this endeavour.”

Editor Professor Chris Dye added, “Our goal is to explain coronavirus science simply, for anyone who wants to get behind the headlines. We don’t offer advice, opinion or recommendations ─ our purpose is to say what we now know, and what more we need to know, to anticipate the spread of COVID-19 and to bring the pandemic under control.”

Professor Oliver Pybus said, “I am delighted that the Oxford Martin Programme on Pandemic Genomics has contributed to this important resource of accurate and up-to-date information on the virus and the pandemic it has caused.”