Researchby Clinical Chemists in the United States

Publications listed in Chemical Abstracts (1962-1966) for 1539 members of the American Association of Clinical Chemists have been analyzed statistically by the “Product of Factors Law” as developed by Zener to assess research productivity. The observed data agreed well with a theoretical distribution curve for research productivity derived from the use of seven individual, uniform, statistically independent factors. The three personal factors of success in research productivity are tentatively identified as curiosity, ability to learn, and intellectual vigor. Adequate time, facilities, and technical help, and the presence of stimulating colleagues are possible extrinsic environmental factors governing the characteristic productivity distribution curve observed in this study. During this period, about 65% of the AACC membership had no papers abstracted in Chemical Abstracts and not more than 50 averaged one or more papers per year. Various prevailing scientific and sociological trends are discussed, which soon may improve this perspective.