A new major study shows that trust in scientists in the UK is heavily influenced by people's values, identity, and political beliefs. The research highlights that people are more likely to trust scientists if they feel those scientists are on their side, rather than simply seeing them as experts. This perception varies widely across the population: 68% of people with high trust in scientists believe scientists are on their side, compared to only 7% of those with low trust. Political views play a major role in shaping these perceptions. For example, only 32% of supporters of Reform UK believe scientists are on their side, while 71% of Green Party supporters share that view—creating a 39-point gap. Reform UK supporters are also less likely to trust scientists overall, especially climate scientists, who are found to be the most polarizing in the study. This suggests that scientific fields, particularly those with strong policy implications, can become highly politicized. Another key factor in building trust is personal connection to the scientific community. Nearly 38% of people with high trust in scientists work in science or medicine or know someone who does, compared to just 16% of those with low trust. This personal link to science appears to increase trust across different levels of education and occupation, indicating that familiarity with the field plays a significant role in shaping public perception. The study, conducted by the Policy Institute at King's College London and Sense About Science, and funded by Wellcome, surveyed 4,262 UK adults through YouGov. It identifies seven main factors influencing public trust in scientists, with shared values and identity being a key one. The research also shows that people with low trust in scientists are more likely to oppose public funding for science and less likely to follow scientific advice. The study divides the UK population into distinct groups, from "Science Advocates" to "Science Critics," each with different reasons for their views. To improve public trust, the study finds that people most value scientists correcting misinformation and explaining how their work benefits everyday life. In contrast, actions like advising policymakers or involving the public in research planning are seen as less effective in building trust. Researchers emphasized that while trust in scientists remains relatively high in the UK, it is not just about expertise—it's about whether people believe scientists are acting in their best interests. They also noted that science is increasingly tied to political identity, and strengthening the link between scientific research and people's daily lives is crucial for maintaining public confidence.