Smarter together: Helping complex research teams work efficiently
About the Team Science Component
The CCTS Team Science component helps research teams work more effectively by applying evidence-based strategies drawn from the science of team dynamics. While most research teams form organically—without formal guidance—decades of research show that intentional teamwork practices lead to stronger collaboration, improved outcomes, and more innovative sciences.
Our approach is rooted in the science of team science (SciTS)—a cross-disciplinary field focused on understanding and improving how research teams collaborate. SciTS provides practical, evidence-based strategies for everything from goal alignment and communication, to conflict resolution and leadership in complex team environments.
In translational research, collaboration is especially complex. Teams often span disciplines, departments, and institutions, forming multi-team systems. These teams frequently encounter preventable challenges that can stall or derail progress. The CCTS Team Science component is designed to help teams address these issues early and effectively.
We offer:
- grant support and planning services
- workshops and training grounded in current research
- ongoing evaluation to support team development over time
and more!
Why should you partner with us?
If you are part of a research team at one of the CCTS partner organizations, we can help you:
- understand your team's collaboration patterns
- build skills for more effective teamwork
- apply best practices tailored to your goals
Leadership and Staff
| Eric Thomas, MD, MPH | Director | 713-500-7958 |
| Eduardo Salas, PhD | Director | 713-348-3917 |
| Gabriela Fernández Castillo, MA | Graduate Researcher |
The Team Science component is aided by the experience and backgrounds of its personnel:
Eric J. Thomas, MD, MPH, professor of medicine and associate dean for healthcare quality at McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston, directs the UTHealth Houston—Memorial Hermann Center for Healthcare Quality and Safety and has conducted pioneering work on measuring team behaviors.
Eduardo Salas, PhD, professor and Allyn R. and Gladys M. Cline chair at Rice University, is a world leader in teamwork and team training.
Gabriela Fernández Castillo, MA, doctoral student at Rice University, specializes in understanding and improving how complex, interdisciplinary research teams collaborate to enhance effectiveness in scientific and healthcare settings.