If you’ve ever seen an episode of 1990s series The X-Files, you’ll likely remember Dana Scully as an FBI detective. The character, played by Gillian Anderson for all 11 seasons, was also a graduate in medicine and physics.

The combination made for an unprecedented representation of women on TV at the time, with audiences far more accustomed to seeing scientists played by white men. The fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics are grouped together under the name of STEM professions. And Dana Scully was one of the first female characters in such a field to feature on prime-time TV, which would inspire a generation of young women to start careers in STEM professions. The phenomenon has become referred to as the Scully Effect.

Is there any data to back it up? Why did Scully become such an inspirational figure? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

To listen to the latest episodes, click here:

Is binge drinking over in the UK?

How can I improve my posture in the office?

Why should I avoid showering after a workout?

A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.

In partnership with upday UK.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices