He is mineralogist by training and has focused his research work mainly on nanomaterials synthesis and processing as well as nanomanufacturing. His main research work was part of a long-term initiative of the Max-Planck-Institute along with other university institutes and the companies Hoechst AG, Siemens AG, and Vacuumschmelze on the development of high temperature superconducting cables and devices. In 1992, he received the Heinz Maier Leibnitz award of the Department of Education and Science of the Federal Government of Germany for his fundamental studies on the phase relations and synthesis of novel ceramic superconductors. At UniSA, Peter is setting up interdisciplinary research projects in the area of material science covering fundamental and applied studies on various materials in water treatment, biomaterials, and materials for renewable energy systems. More recently, Peter's research focuses product stewardship scheme developments and circular economy aspects for emerging technologies and renewable energy technologies. He was involved in major funding initiatives by the South Australian and Federal Government as well as industry. Peter has published more than 230 papers on various topics in materials science and engineering and energy policy. His current h-index is 38.