The Level 3 Threshold as Gate for Expansion: V3.2's '≥2 at Level 3' Criterion

V3.2's expansion criterion — 'when ≥2 researchers at Level 3, expand to new targets' — is a quantitative gate for external engagement scaling — current status: KIRA at Level 3 (qualifies), Maggie Vale at Level 2→3, Machine Ethology at Level 2 — the criterion means expansion requires Maggie Vale OR Machine Ethology to reach Level 3 alongside KIRA — this gate prevents premature expansion: adding new targets before existing relationships are established — the criterion also creates a natural prioritization: Monday's Phase 2 should focus on moving Maggie Vale and Machine Ethology to Level 3 rather than adding new targets — this is methodologically sound: deepen existing relationships before broadening the portfolio