Megan Mates: Independent Research with Real-World Impact
This is the impact story of Megan Mates, a PhD student who joined the the 312 Main Research Shop to lead a policy research project with . Tasked with exploring democratic innovations in climate action, Megan conducted independent research and authored a comprehensive 2025 report. The project not only aligned with her academic focus but also strengthened her confidence, sharpened her writing skills, and expanded her professional network through meaningful community collaboration.
For Megan Mates, a fourth-year PhD student, working with the 312 Main Research Shop was an opportunity to take full ownership of a project from start to finish鈥攁n experience that not only aligned with her academic interests but also affirmed her capabilities as a researcher and writer. In partnership with , she authored a 2025 report exploring democratic innovations in local climate engagement.
鈥淲e set out to write a report鈥攁nd we produced a report,鈥� she reflected. As the sole author and researcher on , Megan led a comprehensive policy analysis for a community partner who had long been interested in the topic but lacked the staff capacity to pursue it. Using publicly available documents and direct outreach to municipal worker, she gathered the data needed to build a thoughtful, well-supported report.
While Megan was deeply familiar with the research topic, the project offered a new level of autonomy and responsibility. 鈥淚t was a fun opportunity to manage this type of project myself, and that was a great experience.鈥�
The partner organization was engaged and appreciative, and Megan credits the success of the project to the strong support she received throughout. 鈥淭ara Mahoney and the Research Shop team were kind and helpful, and my partner organization was incredibly supportive.鈥�
Megan鈥檚 biggest takeaway? Confidence. 鈥淭his experience reinforced my belief in my writing abilities and my capacity to see a long-term project through.鈥� It also strengthened her network, as she formed valuable connections with colleagues at the partner organization.
Looking ahead, Megan encourages future Research Shop participants to start early鈥攅specially in short placements鈥攁nd consider incorporating a knowledge mobilization component to extend the project鈥檚 impact. For her, the experience was deeply rewarding: 鈥淚t was a dream to dig into a research area I love.鈥�