So is there research or tech tree in the game?

There will be progression regarding equipment and buildings, and there'll be multiple ways to unlock things as well.

So for example, if you find a specific resource while you're out exploring in the early game and you can't use it, you might actually be able to use it for progression purposes.

So if you're playing with a buddy, maybe you should send one of you guys out to explore because that might help you out.