Make research more relevant

At it's current state, research feels a bit shallow, almost irrelevant. In my opinion, it could use a complete rework. But if that is out of question, here are some simple ideas to make it more interesting/relevant:

• Unlock items for crafting: Instead of being able to craft all visited items right from the start, lock them for each level behind a research option.
• Craft items: Instead of items being created instantly, they need to be "manufactured" in the research lab.
  • Or maybe: Just make room upgrades only craftable through the research lab.
• Improve room upgrades: Make room upgrades less effective in the beginning, but add the option to increase their effectiveness.
• Combined room upgrades: Research the option to combine multiple upgrades. Or to be able to build additional room upgrades in the same room.
• Generate Craftium/Loamite/Money, when no active research.
  • Maybe not on idle, but add an "infinite research" option. Like "Commercial Research Ventures".

QoL:

• Indication for labs with no active research (same as "staff on route").