Dr. Shapiro-Ilan conducts research that focuses on invertebrate pathogens and their use in biological insect pest suppression; his main pathogens of interest are entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi. His research spans various aspects of invertebrate pathology including applied biological control, behavior, ecology, genetics, and production technology. Research on other biorational approaches are also of interest. Primary targets for biocontrol are pests of tree crops (e.g., in peach and pecan). Dr. Shapiro-Ilan has published more than 140 refereed scientific journal articles as well as 19 book chapters and 2 edited books. He is inventor on seven patents.