I don't have perms to post in Q&A so you guys get it.

Do your tech allies still have to have tech in the areas you are researching to benefit? Any other nerfs/boosts I should know about?

You only receive the same type of tech they are researching and you can't receive anything if your current tech level for that type is 0.

Ok thanks, does the amount of tech you have still affect how much you get from your allies, as long as it is nonzero?

my understanding is: no

Okie dokie thanks again

I think it cant be more than you have. So, if you ally tech 100K and you have 1K, you still will get 1K. Im not sure though.

According to wiki it does matter the amount you have (but have no clue on recent changes).

"Note that the amount of technology you receive is also dependent upon your own tech levels. A lack of technology on your part will limit your gains from an alliance."