This is true and a valid cause for concern. However, it appears to me that some of the problems in research community could actually benefit from an influx of n

This is true and a valid cause for concern. However, it appears to me that some of the problems in research community could actually benefit from an influx of newly trained, moderately-skilled folk. Consider the low interest among scientists in spending time and effort on reproduction of previous results. Project proposal: gather a group of former paper-pushers with Excel experience and train them up in statistics and a scientific discipline (e.g. biochemistry, medicine, astronomy). After 2-3 years of training, take say 20% of the most promising ones and give them a grant to reproduce existing studies. This fixes both the issue of idle workforce and of poor study reproducibility. It could also turn out to be a lot of fun for the affected. Who knows, you may even end up launching a successful scientific career or two. Of course, this would cost money, but hey automation will increase profits which can be taxed and then redirected to these kind of projects.