Abstract
A delphi study was conducted to analyse the motivational profile of scientists working in research and development organisations using need hierarchy theory. The hierarchy of need and the concepts of basic motivation proposed by Maslow have received wide acceptance for the understanding they provide for organisational research. In this study an attempt was made to find out whether the scientists are motivated primarily by higher needs or not. 82 scientists representing four different research and development organisations in India took part. The results of two rounds show that the potential for self-accomplishment is neutralised by hurdles due to nonfulfilment or partial fulfilment of lower-order needs.