Though i am not using OXCE, it might be useful for others.
About "automagical" (nice word, should be remembered) research: Dont know exactly how research code works, but presume each hour check of research status. Easiest way as i see is to check inactive, but available researches, searching zero cost. And if zero cost found - mark research as completed. But if it will slow down system, check can be performed once a day or after tactical mission ends.
And if not use research - i dont know code, we need some global variable, which will change by winning mission. And command in missionscripts to check it. Maybe "objectivesRequired" from alienDeployements will fit.
Sorry, i just dont know exactly what we have in gamecode, and what we do not have.