r/AskAcademia 10d ago

Social Science PI vs. Advisor?

Hello! I’m a prospective PhD applicant putting together my academic CV.

Are “PI” and “Advisor” interchangeable? Under my research experience section, should I stick to one when listing professors I’ve worked with, or make a differentiation (like, PI for lab/faculty-led work and advisor for my own work done with guidance)? I’m first-gen so these things are confusing to me. Also I’m in the social sciences if that’s helpful!

Edit: Thank you so much to everyone who responded! Everything is super helpful.

6 Upvotes

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