This study investigates empirically how the interplay of motivation and available opportunities strengthens the link between a researcher’s human capital and their personal scientific output. Drawing on recent research in strategic human capital and the abilities-motivation-opportunity (AMO) framework, we employ a combined quantitative and qualitative approach to uncover the key determinants of individual scientific performance. Regression analysis of a dataset of 471 Spanish academic researchers confirms that both motivation and opportunities act as moderators in the human capital–performance relationship. Based on the results, this paper identifies crucial drivers of scientific productivity and provides actionable insights for research management and policy development.
