Abstract

Aims: According to the importance of science in achieving new products and the role of humans in this regard, the present study aims to compare personality characteristics between strong and weak researchers. Methods: This is a casual-comparative study which was performed on 273 researchers selected by purposive sampling among researchers working in various research departments. Subjects were interviewed and then completed NEO questionnaire of personality characteristics. Next, the data was analyzed using indices of mean, standard deviation, independent t-test and variance analysis by means of SPSS software. Results: The comparison of three groups with weak, average and strong performance in terms of 5 personality characteristics showed that there was significant difference between groups with weak and high performance. Although these groups (weak and strong) were the same as for conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness and neuroticism, the strong group outdid in respect of openness. Conclusion: For the selection and employment of researchers as well as their growth and promotion, it is required to pay more attention to flexibility alongside other characteristics.