To do research in Starfield, you need to use Research Laboratories found throughout the game, including on your starship and at places like The Lodge in New Atlantis. Research is divided into five main categories: Pharmacology, Food and Drink, Outpost Development, Equipment, and Weaponry. Each category unlocks crafting recipes and mods related to that area. To start researching:

• Approach a Research Lab and select a research project from one of the categories.
• Each project requires specific resources which you need to deposit into the lab from your inventory.
• You do not need to add all resources at once; you can add them over time until the project is completed.
• Some projects require unlocking higher skill levels in the Science category to access advanced research.
• Research skills like Research Methods, Weapon Engineering, Chemistry, and Outpost Engineering unlock more advanced projects and reduce resource costs.

Research unlocks better items, weapons, armor mods, food, medical supplies, and outpost components you can craft, enhancing your gameplay. Early investment in Research and the related skills is key to progressing efficiently in the game.