PhD application question: "Why do you want to join my research group?" Whenever somebody asks me "why are you interested in joining my research group", I find myself helpless. What are the usual points or aspects I should talk about in reply of this question?
Essentially, what the potential advisor is asking you to show is that you've "done your homework" before applying. Why do you want to apply to Prof. X's group? What is it about their research that is attractive to you? Why do you think you'd fit in to the group? If you just send a generic email that inquires about positions and don't have an outstanding CV and transcript, you're not going to get very far. However, if you make it clear that you've looked into the group and can explain why you're interested, you'll have a better chance of getting a response.