Don't you think that "research & development" are connected to marketing, cost management as well as other parts of business strategy?

Yes indeed.

I think R & D is essential to every facet of a company and especially their business strategy. It is connected to markeitng, sales, managment etc. as it impacts on the overall success of a business within a market place whether its R & D condcuted for your proudcts/ services or for your market/ industry.