ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how to build a critical mass of colleagues and peers to work with, both within the institution and beyond. It divides into three sections: research projects and leading teams, PhD supervision, and external networking. The chapter examines ways in which someone can meet and work with kindred spirits, as well as ways of working with individuals, teams and institutions who do not share the vision or goals. Driven by institutions who expect their academic workforce to be as productive as possible during their tenure, it has emphasised continued excellence and 'high achievement', pushing academics to adopt low-risk research strategies and along increasingly specialised routes. The extent to which HE institutions are set up to accommodate and promote collaboration within the university and beyond will depend very much on the institution.
