This study examines the perceptions of the two professional community’s of scientists and journalists towards (1) the functions of journalism in general; (2) methods of science reporting; and (3) expectations concerning interactions between journalists and scientists. Exploratory surveys on 1,046 scientists and 67 reporters, and six in-depth interviews were conducted. In general, the scientists and journalists surveyed agreed on most of the positive functions of news media although journalists tended to be even more positive. Scientists in general felt science news was too superficial, overly dramatic, and easily caused misunderstanding. When asked about their interaction, journalists were less likely than scientists to agree to allow scientists they have interviewed to check copy before publication. Scientists agreed more than journalists that science news should place a high emphasis on accuracy. It is suggested that scientists need to know more about the news media in order to facilitate more effective communication with journalists and the public.