This paper explores if a collaboration-based shared knowledge base would be a useful tool for supporting the collaboration of researchers working with the same research theme. The research question is explored with a constructive approach, i.e. a prototype of Web-based collaboration system for sharing knowledge of a certain research areas is created. This paper discusses both the design issues related to implementing such a system, and experiences on the adoption and usage of the system. The results indicate that a Web-based knowledge sharing tool can be valuable for increasing collaboration of an established research group. The useful features included a blog for small and informal announcements, introducing new researchers with the subject and recommending resources to other researchers. However, several problems were also recognized. These include encouraging and supporting interdisciplinary co-operation, limitations on accessing online databases of scientific publishers, and integration with personal research citation databases.