In times of crisis, academics and journalists come together when public attention explodes and institutions feel under pressure. Outside of these moments, the relationship often remains fragile, episodic, or purely instrumental. This session offers a critical reflection on what kind of relationship makes sense to build between universities and journalism today, in a context where academics speak increasingly directly to policymakers and the public. If journalism remains central to democratic debate, what form of relationship can strengthen its role in interpreting and making sense of expertise?