There al only 8 characters who can research on each side. Thrawn,Klev, Ackbar, and Wedge can do new ship research at any Shipyard. Orlok, Villar, Lando, and Talon Karrde can do Facility research at any construction facility. Bevel and Adar Talon can research anything at any building facility. And troops can be researched by Carlist Rieekan, Covell, Crix Madine, and Veers at training facilities.