Peter Doran's research interests span the spatial turn in law (‘the lawscape'), critical wellbeing economics, the attention economy, climate change and the rights of nature. He has particular interests in the commons and commoning.

Doran's writing is often informed by critical writing and practice outside the dominant Western legal and societal experience, drawing on his interests in Asian philosophical traditions and practices (Chan, Zen).

Doran has also written about and delivered innovative approaches to experiential learning to help students connect their biographical reflections with a greater understanding of the challenges of the climate emergency and delivering the UN Sustainable Development Goals.