How to Succeed at Collaborative Research: A Practical Guide for Teams

Today's complex research challenges demand effective teams, yet researchers rarely receive training in teamwork skills crucial for collaborative success. This book fills that gap, outlining theory and providing practical actions that equip researchers with tools to build and sustain effective teams. Drawing on organizational psychology, team science and the authors’ own experience, it offers concrete practices for fostering collaborative innovation, managing diverse perspectives and achieving high-impact outcomes. An essential reading for researchers, administrators and facilitators seeking to build high-performing teams, this indispensable resource enables researchers to effectively work across different disciplines and sectors to meet the evolving demands of funded research.

Table of Contents:
Preface Introduction: Using this Book Part 1: Setting the Stage 1. Why Research Collaboration? 2. What is a Research Team? Part 2: Creating the Team 3. Building Teams on Purpose 4. Leading Research Teams 5. Establishing a Shared Vision Part 3: Team Mindset 6. Adopting a Collaborative Mindset 7. Trust and Psychological Safety 8. Diversity and Difference Part 4: Managing Team Dynamics 9. Productive Conflict 10. Team Communication 11. Sharing Credit, Recognition, and Reward Part 5: Poised for Continued Success 12. Sustaining and Strengthening the Team 13. Mentoring in Support of Research Collaboration 14. Navigating Networks and Systems Appendix: Collaboration and Institutional Agreements

About the Author :
L. Michelle Bennett empowers teams and organizations through collaborative experiences that transform ideas into impact at L.M. Bennett Consulting. Howard Gadlin currently Consulting Ombudsman to Harvard Medical School, having previously served as Ombudsman and Director of the Center for Cooperative Resolution at the National Institutes of Health, US. Sawsan Khuri creates synergies and catalyses collaborative innovation at Collaborative Capacities and is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Exeter Medical School.

Review :
“It is a sourcebook for building, maintaining and sustaining high performing teams … a must-have and a powerful go-to for team members and leaders in research as well as other team-based organizations. The case studies are recognizable – we have been there – and the resources offered are realistic and relevant.” Charline S. Russo, University of Pennsylvania “In chapters that range across the full lifecycle of a research team, the authors skillfully blend theory, case studies and practical guidance that support both deep understanding and skillful execution. Each is a nugget of team research wisdom that will prove valuable to new as well as experienced team researchers.” Michael O’Rourke, TDI Center and Michigan State University “Structured facilitation and reflection on collaboration are often overlooked in inter- and transdisciplinary research, where education still leans on mere exposure to group work. This book may help shift those habits – a true gem!” Iris van der Tuin, Utrecht University “A brilliant combination of team science theory with insightful and practical advice for team leaders, members, trainers, and research professionals.” Wayne McCormack, International Network for the Science of Team Science and University of Florida College of Medicine “[An] authoritative, hands-on guide for achieving successful collaboration in team-based research. A major strength is its emphasis on applying evidence-based principles and practices for achieving excellence in collaborative research. The book is very timely given the complex societal and environmental dilemmas humanity is facing in the early 21st Century.” Daniel Stokols, University of California “[An] essential guide for both scholars and academic administrators who facilitate scholarly teams. It effectively juxtaposes theoretical knowledge with practical guidance. Underlying the excellent advice for navigating collaborative research, the authors focus on how to create inclusive team environments, the essential foundation on which innovation and productivity thrive.” Barbara Endemaño Walker, University of California Santa Barbara and the National Organization of Research Development Professionals “This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to do collaborative research that makes a real difference. Its intentional and evidence-based approach to building high-performing teams will empower everyone you work with to be part of the change you want to see.” Mark Reed, Natural Capital Challenge Centre “This book is brimming with rich insights and structured exercises for teams – a timely and practical resource for anyone confronting emerging global challenges.” Michael E. Bales, Weill Cornell Medicine “A comprehensive and practical guide that takes us through the fundamental principles of collaboration, explores the key components of effective team building, and provides strategies for managing teams and harnessing their collective strengths to achieve a shared goal. I truly appreciate the authors for providing such a timely and valuable resource.” Kidist Bobosha, Armauer Hansen Research Institute