Scientific Research Collaboration between Iran and Its Neighbour Countries

The purpose of this study is to explore the scientific collaborations between Iran and its neighbor countries from 1990 to 2007, describing the need and importance of collaboration in scientific research. Scientific research collaboration as an important component of the research process is an essential factor in the development of science and research, especially in developing countries. This study analyzes 'co-authorship' as the most common indicator for assessing scientific collaborations. For this study, papers co-authored and published by researchers affiliated with institutions from Iran and its neighbor countries are considered. ISI Web of Science was the main source of data collection. The findings show that Iran has the highest number of co-authorships with Russia, Turkey, and Pakistan, respectively, in physics, chemistry, and biology. Although, common language and culture may have significant impact on scientific collaborations, they are not the only factor. This study shows that political relations between countries may be have a direct impact on scientific collaborations. It is also shown that there is a significant correlation between scientific research productivity of a country and its scientific collaborations with other countries.