OSC: If She Can See It, She Can Be It
Scientists on Screen
Representations of women in STEM in popular media matter.
On both the big and small screen, there are representations of strong, intelligent, creative and determined women scientists — from paleobotanist Dr. Ellie Sattler in Jurassic Park to theoretical astrophysicist Captain Samantha Carter in Stargate to Taraji P. Henson’s portrayal of real-life mathematician Katherine Johnson in Hidden Figures to medical doctor-turned-paranormal detective Dana Scully in The X-Files.
A recent study found that women who regularly watched The X-Files (1993 - 2002) were 50% more likely to work in STEM fields than those who did not. “The Scully Effect” shows how influential Scully’s character was for young women and girls who watched the show.
On-screen role models like Dana Scully challenge cultural ideas about who and what a scientist is or isn’t. Telling stories about women who work and succeed in STEM inspire girls to imagine their future leadership potential in these fields — if she can see it, she can be it.
Real-life STEM role models take centre stage to share their stories — and passion for science! From their favourite fictional women scientists to their compelling careers, learn about the limitless possibilities for women and girls in STEM.
• Emily Agard, Director, SciXchange, Ryerson University
• Imogen Coe, Professor and Founding Dean, Faculty of Science, Ryerson University
• Eugenia Duodu, CEO, Visions of Science
• Vicky Forster, Post-doctoral Fellow, Hospital for Sick Children
• Reeda Mahmood, Co-founder, IdeaMosaic
• Natalie Panek, Aerospace Engineer, MDA
• Azadeh Shirzadi, Founder, STEMneutral (moderator)
• Mylene Tu, Undergraduate, Engineering, University of Waterloo
• Rachel Ward-Maxwell, Researcher/Programmer, Astronomy and Space Sciences, Ontario Science Centre (moderator)
Scientist Sketches
What does a scientist look like? A scientist looks like YOU!
Close your eyes and imagine the future. What type of scientist are you? Express your career aspirations with a full-colour sketch of your future scientist self. Whether you’re an astronaut or a zoologist, the artists at Caricature Creators have got you coloured from A to Z.
Hang your sketch where you can see it daily to help you set goals and pursue your dream. Remember, if you can see it, you can be it.
$10 per sketch
All Activities take place in the Hot Zone, Level 6
Who can attend: Everyone
Fee: Free with Science Centre admission
Organized by: Ontario Science Centre
Location: Ontario Science Centre