Navigating cross-functional team dynamics in biotech can be challenging but is essential for project success. Start by fostering open communication channels to ensure everyone understands each other's expertise and contributions. Regular team meetings help align goals and set clear expectations, reducing misunderstandings. Encouraging collaborative problem-solving sessions can also build trust and leverage diverse perspectives, creating a more cohesive and innovative environment. How do you approach cross-functional collaboration in your projects?

3 big tips 1. Open, clear, consistent (weekly) communication. Don't leave anyone guessing or assuming. 2. Set realistic timelines and ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the dates. When timelines are set, there is no guessing. 3. Respect. Make their job easier and ask yourself, "Would I want to work with me?"

Make sure everyone's actually working toward a common goal. In my experience, individual teams are often performing well according to the KPIs (key performance indicators) assigned to them, but the KPIs between teams end up clashing with each other. For example, let's say the sales team at a CRO (contract research organization) is trying to win projects, and there's a big appetite from clients for riskier work. The sales team is measured on quota, so of course they want the business, but what if the operations team is measured on successful projects? They won't want to approve a proposal that'd end up hurting their own KPIs. Escalate the issue up to leadership, so they can re-assign KPIs in a way that's actually aligned.

From my experience, don’t expect people to operate exactly as you would. Set clear roles, but stay flexible and realistic. Biotech thrives on diverse expertise, but this diversity can challenge alignment. When building teams, be intentional. Choose individuals whose strengths complement each other rather than duplicating skill sets. A wise, balanced team fosters innovation and collaboration while minimizing friction. Remember, success isn't about changing people—it's about creating an environment where differences drive synergy, not division.

Cross functional and interdisciplinary work are integral part in any biotech organization, thus its good to have open communication with team member, helping and learning attitude with the collegeaue are important. Be open to learn new things which could boost your o going projects with new skills from other domain and on same time if others are having any issue , do support them

Having shared OKR’s and aligned individual objectives, or else your teams will be competing amongst themselves for ownership, resourcing, etc.