Principal Investigator
Amy L. Brewster, Ph.D.
I earned my B.S. in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey, my Ph.D. from UC Irvine, and completed my postdoc at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. I’m now an Associate Professor at SMU, where I love combining research with mentoring the amazing students in my lab. When I’m not working, I’m usually out on the trails with my golden retriever, Beto, my top hiking buddy and unofficial lab mascot.
Research Assistant
Yibo Li, M.S.
Hi! I’m originally from China and hold dual M.S. degrees in Molecular & Cellular Biology and Computational Biology & Bioinformatics from UT Dallas. I joined the Brewster Lab in 2022, where I manage mouse colonies, run biochemical experiments, analyze data, and assist with manuscripts and student training. Outside the lab, I enjoy photography and spending time with my family.
Ph.D. Student
Nicole Pinzon-Hoyos
Hi there! I’m from Cali, Colombia, the capital of Salsa. I earned my B.S. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from Icesi University in Cali. I joined the Brewster Lab in 2023, and since then, I’ve been studying the role of the immune complement system in acquired epilepsy. In my spare time, I truly enjoy reading, taking walks with my dog Nala, going to the gym, and dancing hip-hop.
Ph.D. Student
Zahra Sadri
I am originally from Iran. I earned my B.Sc. in Animal Biology from Kharazmi University in Tehran and an M.A. in Molecular and Cell Biology at SMU. I joined the Brewster Lab in March 2023. My long-term goal is to become a professor and an influential mentor. Outside the lab, I’m all about movement and exploration. I love hiking, biking, trying new foods, and spending time in nature whenever I can.
Undergrad Researcher (Hamilton Scholar)
Ashiyana Dahiya
I joined the Brewster Lab in January 2024. I am a SMU senior majoring in Biology and Psychology, and I recently began my Hamilton Undergraduate Research Scholars project in Dr. Brewster's laboratory. I’m originally from Dallas, and on weekends you can find me spending time with my wonderful friends or thrift shopping on Lower Greenville with an iced coffee in hand.
Lab Paw-sistant
Beto
As the Brewster Lab’s unofficial mascot and Chief Morale Officer, Beto specializes in boosting team spirit, providing emotional support during tough experiments, and ensuring regular mental health walk breaks. He greets every visitor with enthusiasm and keeps spirits high with tail wags and unconditional loyalty. His presence reminds us that science is better with a little joy.