Objective To identify main factors affecting the research capacity of nursing staff for efficient elevation of such a capacity. Methods 1000 persons were chosen in a random coded sampling for completion of questionnaires, including a general information questionnaire, research capacity self-assessment questionnaire, nursing professional value scale and work satisfaction scale for nursing staff. Results Main factors for the research capacity range from high to low the following: education, work satisfaction, training involvement, cognitive value, and nature of their employer. Beta values of such factors are found to be 0. 323, 0. 234, 0. 182,0. 064, and 0. 062 respectively. Conclusion Administrators of nursing staff need to focus on the development of the work values and satisfaction of nursing staff, on top of developing their research methodology and knowledge. This approach may encourage them to proactively involve in research activities.