Meet the team
Principal Investigator
Amy L. Brewster, Ph.D.
I received a B.S. in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico-Cayey, Ph.D. from University of California-Irvine, and postdoctoral training at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX. In addition to research, I really enjoy mentoring all my fantastic students in and out of the lab.
When not in lab, I spend time traveling and doing outdoor activities with the lab assistant 'Beto'.
Graduate students
Nicole Petchey
I majored in Biology at SMU. I am currently doing my masters in Molecular and Cellular Biology, and I have applied to medical schools with the hopes of one day becoming a doctor.
Undergraduate research students
Azeez Abdul
I am currently a junior majoring in biology with minors in chemistry and political science. As I am super passionate about research in Epilepsy and Public Health, I plan on pursuing a career in research and medicine after graduating SMU.
Gloria Mireles
I am double majoring in Biology B.A. and Psychology B.S. After graduating I would like to apply to PA school and work with a Neurologist or Psychiatrist.
Batul Shakir
I am double majoring in Economics and Statistical Science with a minor in Health Sciences. After graduating, I hope to attend medical school and help under-served communities.
Renata Valenzuela
I am studying biology on the pre-health track with a minor in Art. Since I was ten I have found science fascinating and within the last six years, biology has become my passion. My goal is to pursue a future in the medical field.
Alumni
Nicole D. Schartz, Ph.D.
Dr. Schartz obtained her Ph.D. in April 2019 and is currently a Postdoctoral Scholar at the University of California, Irvine.
Season K. Johnson, Ph.D.
Dr. Johnson obtained her Ph.D. in March 2020 and is currently a Postdoctoral Scholar at Indiana University, Indianapolis.
Alisha Aroor, M.S.
Alisha obtained her master's degree in July 2021 and is currently a doctoral student at Purdue University.
Alisha's first semester in lab
