1. Though not visible, your resource research DOES add to your production per hour.
2. When increasing from 3% bonus to 6% bonus you are NOT getting an additional 6%, you are now getting a total bonus of 6%.
3. Research does currently unlock higher units, and research increasing bonuses for item creation will be implemented when item creation goes online. (a little birdy told me this will be soon).
I will add more as I can.