William Anderson (28 December 1750 in North Berwick, East Lothian – 3 August 1778 in Bering Sea) was a Scottish naturalist.
Anderson proved to be diligent and was chosen to accompany Cook on his third voyage as surgeon and naturalist, joining the Resolution again on 15 February 1776.
He described and put together a large collection of specimens for Joseph Banks and added considerably to the knowledge of Pacific languages.
Shortly before dying he made a will leaving most of his estate to his sisters, Beth and Robinah, and to his mother's brother, William Melvil.
In a letter to the Earl of Sandwich, Joseph Banks states that Anderson's family received the moneys due to them.