The doctors and scientists of Doheny Eye Institute undertake basic and clinical research, a role known as a physician-scientist.

[2] The loss of vision inspired her to create and fund the organization named for her, the Estelle Doheny Eye Foundation, in 1947.

[5] Dr. A. Ray Irvine, Sr., served as the personal ophthalmologist of Carrie Estelle Doheny, as well of American entrepreneur Walt Disney.

In 1977, Stephen J. Ryan became medical director and proposed the creation of the Doheny Eye Hospital, to serve as a new headquarters and provide clinical facilities for the ophthalmology faculty.

[citation needed] Cumulative Awards from the National Eye Institute exceeded $44 million in 2015.