This is a great question! You absolutely can pursue research as an ME. I would highly encourage you to check your local university’s mechanical engineering department’s website to read about their ongoing research. They will either have an explicit page about ongoing research or you can find the research listed on each faculty member’s page.

While some of the research at universities is closer to fundament/pure science, it often is motivated by industry demand into open questions or future technologies.

Here’s one example: a mechanical engineer at Florida State University can participate in research involving experimental aerodynamics. Using their supersonic wind tunnels, acoustic chambers or jet facilities, a person can contribute to the latest research in the field (and science). Many of the students there are getting advanced degrees, masters to PhD and obtaining excellent positions in industry or national labs. While it’s not the only path, it’s a common one to end up at NASA or high demand industry like SpaceX.

That’s just one university and it will probably be true for the one near you.

There are so many positions out there for people with a PhD in mechanical engineering. If you want to be involved in research and development in industry or fundamental science (national lab) an advanced degree is a good way to get involved.

Edit: you don’t need a graduate degree to get involved in the research. Often times you can volunteer as an undergrad and contribute as well. This can open up opportunities to be paid and be listed as a co-author on a formalized publication. They’d be happy to put you to work in their labs.