PostDoc Discussion Forum

I think usually it's that you want to learn something from them. At least, that's what visitors to my lab have been doing. I did spend time in another lab as part of my PhD, but that was because they were part funding me and it was prearranged, so that was a bit different.

So, when you're there, make sure you learn what it is you went for, and then they are on hand to troubleshoot and help you afterwards

As with any application, ideally you should highlight both - what they get out of it/why they should be offering you a place (your qualifications, skills, creativity, past accomplishments), and why you want to work at this specific place (your motivation).

As for finding more reasons to go to this specific lab than just learning new skills there - do they have any special equipment you could use? I knew someone who did a lab project in another country because she needed a special piece of equipment for her PhD research that was not available anywhere in her country (or maybe not for her field/purposes). Does this lab you are interested in have anything for you to play with that your home lab doesn't? ;)