Professor Gharib's current research interests in conventional fluid dynamics and aeronautics include vortex dynamics, active and passive flow control, nano/micro fluid dynamics, bio-inspired wind and hydro energy harvesting as well as advanced flow-imaging diagnostics.

His biomechanics and medical engineering research activities can be categorized in two areas: fluid dynamics of physiological machines such as human circulatory system, and aquatic breathing/propulsion; development of medical devices such as heart valves, cardiovascular health monitoring, and drug delivery systems.