Dr. Cynthia Steel is a medical affairs and translational research strategist with a deep and enduring love for glaucoma research, most especially the trabecular meshwork!
With more than a decade of experience dedicated to the science and strategy behind ophthalmic therapies, Cynthia has led research initiatives across the spectrum of drug development, from IND-enabling studies to post-market evidence generation. Her work is grounded in a commitment to improving patient outcomes and translating cutting-edge science into meaningful clinical applications.
Cynthia’s career has centered around glaucoma since her earliest days in research, where she studied molecular mechanisms of intraocular pressure elevation and optic nerve degeneration. She has since held leadership roles at Bausch + Lomb, Qlaris Bio, and Glaukos, collaborating with clinical, regulatory, and commercial teams to shape research strategies. She currently serves as a contracted strategic advisor to Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health.
Cynthia holds a Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy from Loyola University Chicago, and an Executive MBA from the University of South Florida Muma College of Business. She currently lives in Tampa, FL with her husband and a menagerie of pets.