After early research on the development and histogenesis of muscles, professor Godlewski's scientific interests focused on regeneration and mechanisms regulating the process of fertilization, as well as early embryo development, blastulation and gastrulation.

He postulated the importance of epithelial tissue in this process and was the first to point out the change in the function, organization and role of the cells under the influence of external stimuli.

His works were never fragmentary, but always synthetic attempts at explaining important issues relating to the mechanisms of development.

Apart from doing research and teaching, Emil Godlewski devoted a lot of time to social issues, especially those connected to medicine.

When Poland regained independence after World War I, he actively participated in the reopening of the Jagiellonian University.