What I would like to see, is a combined tech tree with millions of different combinations randomly selected until game ends. It means that instead of having many different inventions in the database, you would have basic concepts and some kind rules how they can be combined. For a user it should still show like there were a tech tree with inventions, but just one that would never end. This of course would have to be supported by modular graphics and even game mechanics. Quite challenge, but perhaps the time is right.

This could be the set option for if there are no more techs to research.

I would like this a lot.

I think the 5% is too steep a curve though.  It doesn't take long for that to add up to the point where there is a practical cap to the tree even if there isn't an actual one.  On the other hand as I think about it, I could see the possibility of 5% not being enough.  It would be something that would have to be calibrated during beta.

I also wonder what system they are already designing.  They have already said the lasers N idea was just lazy and they are looking to do something more interesting.  I would want to know what they have come up with before throwing my support behind this idea, or perhaps the two ideas can be combined.  There are just so many questions.

I guess this could apply if you run out of techs with the Technological victory off. If the Technological victory is on then this wouldn't apply at least when you run out of techs to research.

This. It will make research an exciting adventure each game instead of the boring grind it can become with a more static research tree. Ever since I became aware of the way research and technology is handled in Warring Factions, I have wanted something like to be implemented in a game like Galactic Civilizations.

I would also like to get infinite tech tree, at least for specific areas. It is not enjoyable when I cut the research spending to zero because the only tech remaining is technological victory.

That's what I was suggesting earlier; even though, I don't play with a technological victory on it should be left as an option. Which if it were on it would eliminate the infinate tech tree option. As long as the tech victory is an option I can shut off I don't care if it were there. I'm not suggesting that we should remove the technology victory option. I have also heard of better tech tree improvements there's a post about this.

Your way could work.