How does individual psychology influence the way we manage our research lives? This study shows that certain personal traits—such as conscientiousness, openness to experience, and agreeableness—are linked to greater emotional intelligence. But it also reveals something else: affects can strengthen or weaken that link.

Key findings:

• People in science with traits such as conscientiousness and openness tend to manage their emotions better.
• Positive affect enhances this ability, while negative affect hinders it.
• Researchers can learn to control their emotions through their feelings and mood, even when their personality does not predispose them to do so.

How can academic institutions create environments that support this psychological balance in scientific life?

Laura Hernando-Jorge, Anabel Fernández-Mesa, Joaquín M. Azagra-Caro & Ana M. Tur-Porcar (2024). Personality and emotional intelligence of researchers: The importance of affects. PLoS One, 19(8), e0304905.