does this person have publications in undergrad? If so, then they can still get into the top-schools because of track record of doing research. If not, then try

does this person have publications in undergrad? If so, then they can still get into the top-schools because of track record of doing research. If not, then try and get into a program with known advisors/researchers that can be on your publications. Its all about funding. Look at NIH's Project Reporter.