<p>Apply! You sound like you have great experience with research. I’m sure you understand that your GPA is a major factor in the decision making process, but the admissions committee are real people who will sort through all the information you provide. A 3.4 is just a bit below the average 3.5 recommended, but it is not at all unheard of for people to get in schools with less. Work on obtaining strong recommendations and a well-thought out, articulate, but concise essay explaining why you want to go to such school specifically, what the school can offer you, and what you can offer it. Best of luck! Also, if you’re applying for Fall 2010, consider Vanderbilt U.</p>