An app can stand out for many diff reasons, eg. helping to start a new lab (no papers, new lab), leading diversity and equity initiatives, seeking out REUs/summer research if not at an R01, supporting yourself/family financially, etc...don't not apply if you don't have papers.
My jaws keep dropping as I go through 70 PhD applicant files. People w/ 2 coauthored papers & an interesting solo writing sample don’t even make it to the top 10 in my pile.
The level of knowledge, research experience & passion these kids bring to the table is just remarkable! 🤩