Peter Wills is a theoretical biologist in the Department of Physics at the University of Auckland. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry from the University of Auckland, awarded in 1977. Following his doctoral studies, he completed postdoctoral research in Canberra and Berlin before returning to the University of Auckland.
His primary research focus is the origin of genetic coding. Wills has contributed to studies on the origins of life and evolution. He previously served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and is now recognized as an Honorary Associate Professor or Emeritus academic. In 2000, he provided testimony to the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification. Wills is affiliated with the Te Ao Marama Centre for Fundamental Inquiry. His work appears in academic profiles noting contributions to biophysical chemistry and theoretical biology, with significant citation impact recorded on Google Scholar. He has participated in collaborative research projects, including one supported by a $2 million grant to test theories on the origins of life.