Guest Speaker: Dr. Peter Wills - A Life in Science
A Journey Through Science, Faith, and Philosophy Dr. Peter Wills, theoretical biologist in the Department of Physics at the University of Auckland, delivered a wide-ranging, reflective address entitled "A Life in Science."
Introduced by Warwick Layland, Dr. Wills looked back on a 50-year career spanning international research, controversial political activism, and fundamental questions about the origin of life.
Raised in the Exclusive Brethren, Dr. Wills described his early intellectual journey navigating creationist belief and determinism in physics, moving toward philosophy, biochemistry, and biophysics. Over his career, he authored over 150 scientific publications (accumulating more than 3,700 citations).
Key Scientific and Research Highlights
- Origin of Genetic Translation: Dr. Wills shared his core research focus—answering how the interpreter of genetic code arose alongside DNA itself. Collaborating with international researchers, his model explores how complementary strands of early genetic material produced the foundational enzymes that make biological code readable.
- Prions and Structural Biophysics: Reflecting on his work at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on Kuru and prion diseases, he detailed how infectious proteins replicate through structural change without carrying genetic material.
- Early Career Achievements: He noted the rediscovery and current relevance of his 1970s PhD work at the University of Auckland on the molecular structure of liver glycogen.
Science in Society and Activism Dr. Wills discussed his extensive involvement in socio-political movements, illustrating the responsibility scientists bear toward society:
- Anti-Nuclear Activism: Co-founding Scientists Against Nuclear Arms (SANA) in the 1980s, he engaged in nuclear disarmament campaigns, exposed post-WWII chemical munitions scuttled in New Zealand waters, and played a role surrounding the US MX missile testing controversy and the Rainbow Warrior era.
- Historical Ethics: He reflected on conversations with key 20th-century physicists, discussing the ethical boundaries and personal accountability of scientists during wartime and political conflict.
Q&A and Academic Reflection During the Q&A session, Dr. Wills reflected on the transformation of tertiary education over 50 years, advocating for a return to Socratic principles of free inquiry, academic integrity, and collegiality. Addressing current debates on Genetic Modification (GM) legislation, he urged caution regarding environmental release, advising that genetic engineering applications remain strictly controlled within laboratory and medical settings.
Club Thanks. The formal vote of thanks was delivered on behalf of the club by Alan Hayward recognizing Dr. Wills for a thought-provoking address spanning groundbreaking biophysics and historical activism. In appreciation, the club presented Dr. Wills with a gift supporting the Starship Children’s Hospital initiative.