How to Write a Scientific or Research Findings Press Release for Viral Press Releases

2 weeks ago - 3 min read

If your organization is announcing new scientific breakthroughs, publishing study results, or sharing research insights, selecting the "Scientific or Research Findings" category on Viral Press Releases is the right choice.

This press release type is ideal for:

• Announcing new scientific discoveries
• Sharing results from a research project, poll, or academic study
• Raising awareness of your organization’s contribution to knowledge or innovation

Whether the research is ground breaking, exploratory, or confirms existing findings, a well-structured press release helps communicate its significance clearly and accurately.

Tone, Language & Accessibility

Although the subject matter may be technical, your press release should be understandable to a general audience. You’re writing for journalists, media outlets, and non-expert readers, many of whom will not have a background in your field.

Here are some key writing tips:

• Use plain language without oversimplifying the science
• Avoid academic or overly complex phrasing
• Explain technical terms clearly on first mention
• Spell out acronyms before using their shortened form
• Maintain accuracy, but prioritize clarity

The aim is to educate, inform, and engage, not to alienate readers with jargon.

Headlines: Keep Them Short and Impactful

Your headline should summarize the key message of the research without overwhelming readers with details. Use:

• Active voice ("Researchers discover new gene linked to Alzheimer’s")
• Simple language
• No acronyms or technical terms

A good headline grabs attention and invites people to read more.

Introduction: Your Research Snapshot

The lead paragraph (limited to 100 words at Viral Press Releases) must provide a concise summary of the research. Think of it as the answer to the question:

"What is this research about, and why does it matter?"

Include the 5 Ws:

• Who conducted the research?
• What are the main findings?
• When is the research being published or presented?
• Where was the research conducted?
• Why is it significant?

Example:

“A new University of Birmingham study reveals that a high-fibre diet significantly reduces inflammation markers in patients with early-stage arthritis. The findings will be published in the June issue of The Lancet Rheumatology.”

Body: Expand the Story Behind the Research

Use the rest of your press release to:

• Offer background on the study or project
• Provide context—how does this research fit into the bigger picture?
• Describe methodology in simple terms, if relevant
• Include related statistics or comparative findings
• Mention collaborators, institutions, or funding bodies

Break up long paragraphs with subheadings and use bullet points where appropriate for clarity.

Quotes: Add Authority and Emotion

Include a brief quote from one of the lead researchers or a collaborator. The quote should:

• Reinforce the importance of the findings
• Provide insight or emotion
• Avoid repeating factual information already shared

Example:

“Our research adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting diet can play a vital role in managing inflammation-related conditions,” said Dr. Amina Patel, senior author and lecturer in biomedical sciences.

Multimedia: Make It Visually Engaging

Where possible, embed:

• Images of the research team or lab
• Graphs or charts showing key data points
• Illustrations or infographics explaining complex ideas
• Short videos or interviews

Multimedia helps journalists visualize the story and makes your release more likely to be featured.

Media Contacts: Connect with the Experts

Always include a Media Contacts section at the end of your press release. Provide:

• The name(s) of the lead author(s) or a media liaison
• Email addresses and/or phone numbers
• Confirmation that they’re available for interviews or comment
• A link to the original research paper, journal article, or publication (if available)

Example:

Media Contact:

• Dr. Amina Patel
• Email: a.patel@birmingham.ac.uk
• Available for interview
• View the full study: [URL to journal or institutional page]

Final Checklist

Before submitting your research press release to Viral Press Releases:

• ✅ Does the headline highlight the core message in clear language?
• ✅ Does the lead paragraph answer the 5 Ws within 100 words?
• ✅ Is the content accurate, accessible, and jargon-free?
• ✅ Have you included quotes and multimedia to enrich the story?
• ✅ Are media contact details provided and verified?

A well-structured, accessible, and compelling research press release increases the chances of media coverage, boosts public awareness, and strengthens your institution’s credibility.