I usually start with a low tech / 100,000 resources (gives extra 100,000 research on first turn) set up. Everything else default. This give you some choice as to the starting techs you want to have.
I'm a PPB believer. I go for Physics I and II right away and Military Science. This gives me PD units and PPB's after that I feel I can defend myself for at least 50-100 turns.
Then I build Research Facilities everywhere.
Don't always win this way though
