Research International, Inc. is a high-technology company in suburban Seattle, Washington, specializing in contract research and development with particular expertise in optical chemical and biological sensing, micromachining and microfluidics, and miniature rechargeable battery technology. RI's products and services are characterized by a high level of innovation and interdisciplinary problem-solving, representative of the broadly diverse team of scientists and engineers working at the company. Research International emphasizes hardware implementation of all research and development efforts and thus maintains an on-site machine shop, plus well-equipped microfabrication and chemistry/biochemistry laboratories. The manufacturing department, containing electronics, optics, and mechanical assembly areas, is designed for small to medium production runs. Research International excels at rapidly converting proof-of-principle bench technology to pre-production and production instrumentation.