ABSTRACT Purpose This study investigates key factors contributing to research impact and their interactions with the Research Impact Quintuple Helix Model by Arsalan et al. (2024). Design/methodology/approach Using data from a global survey of 630 scientists across diverse disciplines, genders, regions, and experience levels, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was employed to assess the influence of 29 factors related to researcher characteristics, research attributes, publication strategies, institutional support, and national roles. Findings The study validated the Quintuple Helix Model, uncovering complex interdependencies. Institutional support significantly affects research impact by covering leadership, resources, recognition, and funding. Researcher attributes, including academic experience and domain knowledge, also play a crucial role. National socioeconomic conditions indirectly influence research impact by supporting institutions, underscoring the importance of conducive national frameworks. Research limitations While the study offers valuable insights, it has limitations. Although statistically sufficient, the response rate was below 10%, suggesting that the findings may not fully represent the entire global research community. The reliance on self-reported data may also introduce bias, as perceptions of impact can be subjective. Practical implications The findings have a significant impact on researchers aiming to enhance their work’s societal, economic, and cultural significance, institutions seeking supportive environments, and policymakers interested in creating favourable national conditions for impactful research. The study advocates for a strategic alignment among national policies, institutional practices, and individual researcher efforts to maximise research impact and effectively address global challenges. Originality/value By empirically validating the Research Impact Quintuple Helix Model, this study offers a holistic framework for understanding the synergy of factors that drive impactful research.