The purpose of this study is to examine transformational leadership as a predictor of innovative work behavior (IWB) in R and D organizations using the social exchange theory (SET). Scientists working in the R and D laboratories of India CSIR were surveyed using a questionnaire administered in person. Given that transformational leadership is the critical antecedent of IWB, the analysis revealed that transformational leadership has a significant positive effect on scientists IWB. The study provides implications on transformational leadership that have a remarkable relationship with innovative work behaviour. The paper contributes to the ongoing discussion regarding the leaders influence on employees innovation-related behaviors by examining the crucial role of transformational leadership in influencing IWB within the R and D context.