 Project management expertise is becoming increasingly important in academic research settings as it helps teams complete projects more efficiently and effectively. At Duke University, project managers have been employed to support clinical and preclinical translational research team science. These project managers have played a key role in helping teams achieve their goals and successfully navigate complex projects. They have also helped to increase the success rate of translational team science and system biology, big data studies. Additionally, project managers have provided valuable insight into the training needs and requirements for project leaders working in academic research environments. This article was offered by Lynn Sutton, Lisa G Burden, Gene Bolt, and others.