Changing Tier 2 General to Spouse dependent of Tier 1

Hi guys,
I am in a very unique and troubled situation.

So, I came in october 2011 and studied my Ph.D till 2015 october. Then applied for 1 year postdoctoral visa on February 2016.
I found a job and applied for Tier 2 General visa till March 2022.

Now, my company was a science start-up and its funding is coming to an end in April 2019. They have already served me a 3 months notice and they will inform the home office in March 2019.

I have a partner who is Tier 1 Exception Talent with a fellowship, and her visa is valid till 2024 February.

I have already completed nearly 7.5 years continuous leave on my own.
So, if I marry her and become her dependent, then is my long residence 10 year route compromised ??

Please someone tell me what to do?? I am so confused.
There is no provision to explain the home office that my company is trying to apply for new funding but it might take 6 months or so. And they cannot pay me the salary till then. They want me as they have provided sponsorship till March 2022.

Should I marry my partner and become her spouse dependent?? Will it qualify me for 10 year long residence??

Please reply soon

All visas count for ILR long residence. Not sure why you believe there would be an issue.

Dear CR001,

many thanks for your reply.

My doubt is based on the 5 year dependent rule.

I thought that maybe my 7.5 years of lawful residence will hold no value, once I shift to a dependent visa.

1. So, do i apply for long residence route in 2.5 years even if I shift to dependent and it does not matter that my partner will take her time to complete her tier 1 exceptional route till 2024 ?

2. Do you have any suggestions or guidance for me to handle my company situation?? Can i apply to any other visas or stay orders or appeals, to buy 6 months or an year of time, till the company sorts out its funding and can pay me again ??

your replies are much appreciated.