I thought of a possible addition to the mod. What about adding a new path of infinite research which increases the effectiveness of the shield mk3? I don't know if it's even possible with the current modding capabilities to change the effectiveness of a shield based on research, but it would be fun. I find that even with maximized shields, I can't survive a nuclear bomb except at the very edge of the explosion.

An interesting thought, though I'm not sure how feasible that is, especially considering my skill in modding is fairly mediocre at best. If I can figure out how to do such things in a clean and reliable way I'll consider it, until then it's unlikely.

I spent a bunch of time exploring the idea and asking on the forums, but it seems there's no easy way to make an infinite shield research. You could make a few individual upgrades, but it would be limited by how many upgraded shield items you included in the mod.