Senay's research focuses on developing and enhancing spatial models that can be used to predict the distribution of agricultural pests and diseases as well as research any interaction between these pests, their hosts and the environment. Senait is interested in working on climate change adaptation issues especially regarding the increased risk from alien invasive species on livelihoods, food safety and biodiversity. She believes it is important to develop strategies that counter homogenization of species distribution, as novel climates resulting from climate change create suitable habitats for invading species.