In this paper the authors discuss the development of a logic model to represent a community-university research partnership, in which they were partners. The model includes inputs, program activities, immediate outputs, outcomes and long-term impacts key to a successful partnership. (Further differentiates between predisposing (e.g. positive attitudes towards research and partnership), enabling (e.g. increase skills) and reinforcing (sustained links, career opportunities) outputs). Key considerations in the model’s development are discussed in the context of an ongoing research partnership; namely, the complexity of the research partnership, power and accountability, alignment with health promotion policy, and the iterative nature of program design. The limitations of logic models in capturing partnership dynamics are also discussed.