As competition for funding grows ever greater, it is critical for public health researchers to ensure that their work remains relevant and that they are able to demonstrate well-considered methodologies and collaborative partnerships while also focusing on the real-world issues that affect key populations. By assembling world-class teams that overcome national and disciplinary boundaries, researchers ensure that their projects benefit from different perspectives, skill sets and facilities. This creates value not only for the project itself but also for other partners who can learn from their colleagues.