If we're talking about 100% scientific matters, the reality is that for most active research topics do require a Master's or PhD to get into the bleeding edge.

If we're talking about 100% scientific matters, the reality is that for most active research topics do require a Master's or PhD to get into the bleeding edge. Now, the reality is that there is a LOT of research that's out there that needs to find its way into the public's hands. There's a lot that can be done by an enterprising person by implementing what's already out there and shaping it into a user-friendly solution. I personally think the latter is a much more difficult task than getting original research out. It also requires well-rounded people willing to put the effort. This is where anyone with patience and hard work can make a difference.