Center for Clinical and Translational Science

On May 14th, 2025 Rockefeller University hosted a dynamic half-day Team Science Workshop with Clinical Scholars and Heilbrun Nurse Scholars.  The workshop was led by Angela Mendell, MS, CCRP,  Program Manager at the Collaboration and Team Science, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She has contributed significantly to team science competencies for clinical research professionals, helping define and develop skills and training materials to enhance clinical research team effectiveness. The workshop was designed to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and team effectiveness among research professionals. This session is tailored to support scientists in developing essential skills for working within diverse and collaborative research environments.

Workshop Scope and Objectives
The workshop was specifically designed to provide the Scholars with both theoretical insights and practical tools to enhance team productivity, understand team roles, and navigate interpersonal dynamics. The agenda combined foundational concepts in team science with interactive assessments and discussions designed to deepen self-awareness and improve group communication.

 

Topics covered in the workshop were: 

1. Introduction to Team Science: The workshop began with an overview of team science — the study and application of collaborative processes in research. This set the stage for the day by exploring why team science is critical in today’s complex scientific landscape.
2. Working Genius Assessment: Scholars completed and reflected on the Working Genius Assessment, a tool designed to help individuals identify their natural strengths in team settings. This session facilitates understanding of how each Scholar contributes to team progress and where challenges may arise in collaboration.
3. Conflict Management and the TKI Assessment: This portion of the workshop focused on understanding conflict styles using the Thomas-Kilmann Instrument (TKI). Scholars gained insights into their preferred conflict-handling modes and learn strategies for managing disagreement constructively within teams.
4. Negotiation Tips: Practical tips on negotiation — a key skill for resolving differences and aligning goals in collaborative research environments.
5. Final Session: The final session synthesized the day’s key learnings, reinforced takeaways, and invited Scholars to reflect on how they can apply these skills and insights in their own research teams.

Conclusion
This workshop provided a valuable opportunity for Clinical  Scholars at Rockefeller University and Heilbrunn Scholars at the Heilbrunn Family Center for Research Nursing to enhance their collaborative competencies, improve communication, and prepare for effective teamwork in the increasingly interdisciplinary world of scientific research. By investing in interdisciplinary team science training among physician scientists and nurse scientists, the Rockefeller University Center for Clinical and Translational Science continues its commitment to fostering a culture of shared leadership and innovation.