TEAMS: Together Everyone Achieves More in Science: Building the next generation of biomedical research leaders
TEAMS: Together Everyone Achieves More in Science: Building the next generation of biomedical research leaders
The University of Rochester is proud to serve as one of the lead institutions for the NIH-funded TEAMS Program (Together Everyone Achieves More in Science) — a national training initiative designed to help early-career biomedical researchers become exceptional team leaders, mentors, and collaborators.
Co-led by Dr. Beth Tarini (Children’s National Research Institute), Dr. Margaret Ormiston (Associate Professor, The George Washington University School of Business), and Dr. Nathan Smith (Associate Dean for Research Mentorship, University of Rochester), TEAMS prepares scientists to lead inclusive, high-performing research teams that drive discovery.
About the Program
Modern biomedical discoveries are made through collaboration. The TEAMS program helps early-career investigators develop the leadership, mentorship, and communication skills essential for success in today’s team-based research environments.
Over a nine-month training period, participants engage in structured coursework, peer mentorship, and experiential learning designed to enhance their ability to build, lead, and sustain high-performing, multidisciplinary research teams.
Key Components
Cohort-Based Design
Each TEAMS cohort trains together over nine months, combining virtual coursework and peer mentorship to foster connection, collaboration, and trust.
Participants also build relationships with alumni from prior cohorts, forming a growing national network that offers ongoing mentorship, support, and professional development.
Peer Mentorship
- Participants join a peer group of 4–6 colleagues and a senior faculty facilitator
- Monthly 90-minute sessions focused on real-world challenges and applied learning
- Rotating leadership roles (facilitator, recorder, timekeeper)
- Structured feedback, accountability, and professional support
Team Leadership Coursework
Grounded in leadership and team science research, the TEAMS curriculum is delivered virtually using a flipped-classroom model that emphasizes reflection and experiential learning.
Participants complete four modules (13 total 90-minute sessions) covering topics such as:
- Building inclusive and effective research teams
- Leading through collaboration and feedback
- Conflict resolution and shared decision-making
- Sustaining mentorship and team culture
Time Commitment
- Three-day in-person orientation and intensive leadership workshop
- Nine months of virtual coursework and peer mentoring
- 1.5-hour coursework session during the first week of each month
- 1.5-hour peer mentorship meeting during the third week of each month
- Brief pre- and post-session readings and assignments
- Annual program evaluations
The program is designed to be flexible for active researchers and clinicians while maintaining a rich, interactive learning experience.
Participating Institutions
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
- Children’s National Research Institute
- The George Washington University School of Business
- Additional partner institutions to be announced
Applications Coming Soon
Applications for the first TEAMS cohort will open soon. Please check back for updates once funding is finalized.