Faced with increasingly complex and technologically sophisticated research questions, academics are working with others through collaboration and research teams. To be effective, these research teams need to maximize the factors that contribute to success while minimizing the potentially negative impact of associated challenges. One particular challenge, especially with multi-disciplinary teams, relates to the development of a shared understanding of team objectives, tasks, and working relationships. In industry, many teams undergo specific exercises designed to accomplish this end. In academia, the grant application process might serve as a team building exercise. Through the examination of the experience of one academic research team, this paper discusses the potential of a grant application to accomplish this goal. Recommendations for research teams and offices will be offered. (Contains 1 table and 1 figure.)