Complex research projects require a re-think of project management approaches. Research in social sciences is increasingly based on massive data sets or complex statistical techniques involving data transformation. There is also an increasing interest in the knowledge utilization of research, or the impact of research on policy. Both trends make it important to have team members who have various skills – policy analysis, data analysis, methodology, knowledge of field of study, etc. ‘Big science’ like much of modern experimental physics shows how the research enterprise changes with the need for more complex research teams. Big science requires new skills and processes, including how to work together and the use of formal project management techniques. Complex research projects involve many people with differing skill sets and interests; complexity of data source and/or methodologies; usually time or financial pressures with demands for accountability from funder(s) or institution(s). These projects will require new systems and processes, and new skill training for graduate students.