Doheny Eye Institute

A closer look at precision in vision research. Using a tool as delicate as a cat whisker, Dr. Emma Lessieur carefully dissects retinal tissue to study the cellular changes that drive blinding diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. Research at this level demands extraordinary precision, patience, and innovation. It’s this painstaking work that helps uncover new pathways toward earlier detection and better treatments for patients facing vision loss. Support for vision research makes discoveries like these possible. #VisionResearchMatters #RetinaResearch #PreventBlindness #EyeResearch #MedicalInnovation #ScienceInAction #TranslationalResearch #Ophthalmology #ResearchMatters #FromLabToLife

Doheny faculty supporting the future of ophthalmology. Earlier this month, Dr. Benjamin Bert and Dr. Vikas Chopra were in Denver for the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) Oral Examinations. Dr. Bert served as an examiner, while Dr. Chopra contributes as a member of the ABO Board. Their involvement helps ensure the highest standards in training and certification across the field.

Still reflecting on an inspiring week at #ARVO2026. It was a pleasure bringing together our alumni, colleagues, and friends for a special evening at our annual reception. Moments like these reflect what makes the Doheny community so strong—collaboration, shared purpose, and a commitment to advancing vision research. This year, Doheny contributed 50 presentations, including 37 posters and 13 talks, with 22 collaborations alongside UCLA and other leading institutions. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Denver and continues to support the work moving vision science forward. #ARVO #VisionResearch #ResearchMatters #Doheny

We’re live at #ARVO2026, joining the world’s leading scientists and clinicians at the largest and most influential conference in vision research. We’re proud to present findings that advance science and help inform patient care. Doheny’s presence this year includes: 🔹 50 total presentations 🔹 37 posters + 13 talks 🔹 22 collaborative projects with UCLA and top institutions Big ideas. Meaningful collaboration. Real momentum toward better vision for patients everywhere. #ARVO #VisionScience #ResearchMatters

Join us at #ARVO2026 for the Doheny-UCLA Breakfast Forum: Eye on Innovation. Explore how cutting-edge new approach methodologies (NAMs)—from retinal organoids to AI-driven models—are transforming vision research and accelerating discovery. 📍 Denver, CO 🗓 May 3, 2026, 6:30 am (MDT) Learn more or RSVP: doheny.org/events #VisionResearch #Ophthalmology #Innovation #AIinMedicine #NAMs #ARVO

We’re ready for ARVO. 50+ presentations. Global collaborations. Cutting-edge vision research. Doheny takes the stage in Denver. #ARVO2026 #ARVO #DohenyEyeInstitute #UCLAOphthalmology #VisionResearchMatters #VisionResearch #Ophthalmology #EyeResearch

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Bradley Straatsma, MD, JD, on April 16 at the age of 98. As the founding Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and first Director of the Jules Stein Eye Institute, Dr. Straatsma helped shape the foundation of modern ophthalmology at UCLA and far beyond. His leadership was marked by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and the training of generations of physicians and scientists. Throughout his remarkable career, he served in the highest leadership roles across the field, including president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, where he was later honored with its highest distinction, the Laureate Award, in 2010. His impact extended globally, including his work to help establish an eye institute in Cameroon to expand access to vision care. Dr. Straatsma was widely respected not only for his extraordinary accomplishments, but for his generosity as a mentor, colleague, and friend. He was known for his warmth and ever-present smile, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who knew him.

Doheny Eye Institute was proud to host an Ask the Doctor program featuring SriniVas R. Sadda, MD, bringing together more than 75 guests for an engaging and informative discussion. Dr. Sadda highlighted the latest advances in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including current treatments and what’s on the horizon. He also discussed how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of patient care and how it is opening the door to earlier detection, more precise monitoring, and improved outcomes. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful conversation, and for supporting the research that continues to move vision care forward. #VisionResearch #AMD #Ophthalmology #ArtificialIntelligence #DohenyEyeInstitute

We’re proud to announce that Yuhua Zhang, PhD, has been named chairholder of the Carolyn and Chuck Miller Endowed Chair for Vision Research at Doheny Eye Institute. Dr. Zhang’s work in advanced retinal imaging is helping scientists see the eye in entirely new ways, down to individual cells, opening the door to earlier detection and improved treatment of vision-threatening diseases. This appointment recognizes his leadership in vision science and supports continued innovation aimed at preserving sight. #DohenyEyeInstitute #VisionResearch #Ophthalmology #Innovation #EndowedChair

Join us for a special conversation on the future of retinal care. On Monday, April 20, hear from world-renowned retina specialist SriniVas R. Sadda, MD, FARVO, as he shares the latest advances in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and how artificial intelligence is transforming diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from one of the field’s leading experts and ask questions about this rapidly evolving area of vision care. 📅 Monday, April 20 | 1:00–2:30 p.m. 📍 Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena 🚗 Complimentary parking + light refreshments RSVP by April 15 at rsvp@doheny.org #DohenyEyeInstitute #VisionResearch #Ophthalmology #AMD #ArtificialIntelligence #Retina #EyeHealth

Congratulations to Victoria Tseng, MD, PhD, on receiving the American Glaucoma Society Mid-Career Physician Scientist Award. This award supports innovative research by mid-career investigators, and Dr. Tseng’s work is a great example of that impact. Her project will explore how external stressors influence glaucoma progression, using large-scale population data to better understand both disease prevalence and the need for surgical intervention. We’re proud to see this important work recognized and supported. #GlaucomaResearch #Ophthalmology #VisionScience #DohenyEyeInstitute

145 experts. 13 countries. One shared goal: advancing macular research. The Ryan Initiative for Macular Research (RIMR) Annual Conference brought together global leaders across AI, imaging, gene therapy, and regenerative medicine. It was supported by 17 industry partners and a shared commitment to progress. Highlights included the David Hinton Memorial Lecture by Constance Cepko, PhD, showcasing new approaches to oxidative damage in the eye. Because accelerating discovery takes collaboration. #AMDResearch #VisionScience #Ophthalmology #GlobalCollaboration

We’re excited to welcome Alicia Cleaver as Doheny Eye Institute’s new Chief Development Officer. Alicia brings nearly two decades of experience advancing philanthropy for mission-driven institutions, along with a thoughtful, collaborative leadership style that will be an incredible asset as we continue to grow our impact. As a leading center for vision research and education, Doheny’s work helps inform and shape the future of patient care. Alicia’s leadership will play an important role in strengthening the support behind that mission. Welcome to the team, Alicia! We’re glad you’re here. 💜 #DohenyEyeInstitute #VisionResearch #Philanthropy #Leadership #Ophthalmology

✨ Timeless Elegance at the Luminaires Founders Benefit ✨ Today, nearly 250 wonderful women gathered at the beautiful Langham Huntington in Pasadena for the annual Luminaires Founders Benefit Fashion Show Luncheon. It was a truly special afternoon celebrating community, philanthropy, and style. This year’s Timeless Elegance–themed event featured a stunning fashion show by Robert Ellis Boutique, delighting guests while supporting the vital mission of Doheny Eye Institute. A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of The Vision Award to Mary Catherine Cooper, a devoted Luminaires member since 2000. Mary Catherine has been a steadfast supporter of both the Luminaires and Doheny Eye Institute. We are profoundly grateful for her passion, guidance, generous patronage, and inspirational presence within our community. Dr. Benjamin Bert was also on hand to toast Mary Catherine and thank her for her warm spirit and dedicated service to her community—making the moment even more meaningful. Heartfelt thanks to our incredible benefit leadership: Jennifer Cooper and Peggy Schmid, Benefit Co-Chairs; Judy Kloner, Benefit Advisor; and Luminaires Founders President, Jinny Dalbeck. Your dedication made this elegant and meaningful gathering possible. 💐 #Luminaires #DohenyEyeInstitute #TimelessElegance #WomenInPhilanthropy

We’re proud to see Doheny leadership represented in conversations shaping the future of science and medicine. Yesterday, Deborah A. Ferrington, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at Doheny Eye Institute, participated in a Women in Pharma panel hosted by the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineers (ISPE) Greater Los Angeles Chapter at Takeda Pharmaceutical Company in Thousand Oaks. The event celebrated International Women's Day and brought together leaders from across biotech, academia, and the pharmaceutical industry to discuss leadership, innovation, and opportunities for women in science. #InternationalWomensDay #WomenInScience #WomenInPharma #VisionResearch #DohenyEyeInstitute

Join us for a special evening as we celebrate John C. Affeldt, MD, the 2026 Doheny Distinguished Alumnus. This gathering will bring together alumni and friends of Doheny for an evening of connection, conversation, and shared memories. Dr. Affeldt’s career reflects the very best of Doheny’s traditions: rigorous training, generous teaching, and lifelong service to patients, colleagues, and the ophthalmology community. 📅 Saturday, March 21, 2026 🕠 5:30 – 9:00 PM 📍 Private club in Pasadena We hope you’ll join us to honor Dr. Affeldt and reconnect with the Doheny community. For more information or to RSVP, please visit doheny.org/events. #DohenyEyeInstitute #Ophthalmology #DohenyAlumni #VisionScience #DohenyCommunity

🔬 Insightful discussion at the Doheny Distinguished Lecture Series Thank you to David Gamm, MD, PhD, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison for a fascinating presentation at Doheny Eye Institute as part of our 2025–2026 Distinguished Lecture Series. Dr. Gamm’s lecture, “Designing Stem Cell-Based Potency Assays to Advance Retinal Gene Therapies,” walked the audience through the methodology behind his research and the innovative approaches his team is using to help move retinal gene therapies closer to clinical application. The discussion highlighted how carefully designed stem cell-based models can play a critical role in evaluating the effectiveness of emerging gene therapies for retinal disease. We are grateful to Dr. Gamm for sharing his expertise and to everyone who joined us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation on the future of vision science. #DohenyEyeInstitute #VisionScience #StemCellResearch #RetinaResearch #GeneTherapy #Ophthalmology

🌍 International recognition for Doheny-UCLA! Dr. SriniVas R. Sadda served as international faculty at ARISE 2026 (Advances in Retinal Imaging, Surgery & Electrophysiology) in Bangalore, India — and was honored with the prestigious ARISE Award. Hosted by The Eye Foundation and celebrating 30 years of retinal excellence, the meeting brought together global leaders in the field. Dr. Sadda’s recognition reflects his extraordinary leadership in retinal imaging and research and highlights Doheny-UCLA’s growing impact around the world. #DohenyUCLA #RetinaResearch #GlobalImpact #VisionScience #Ophthalmology

Happening Today | 5:00 PM PT (Virtual) We’re proud to share that Doheny alumnus Michael Javaheri, MD, MSc, FASRS will be presenting: "Light Therapy for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration" Dry AMD affects millions, and new approaches are being explored every day. In this live webinar, Dr. Javaheri will discuss how non-invasive light therapy works, how it supports retinal health, and what it may mean for people living with dry AMD. If you or someone you love is interested in emerging research and treatment approaches, this is a timely and informative session to attend. 🗓 Tuesday, February 24 ⏰ 5:00–6:00 PM PT 💻 Virtual 🔗 Register: bit.ly/40eQBcn This webinar is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. #DohenyAlumni #AMDawareness #MacularDegeneration #RetinaResearch #VisionScience #EyeHealth

The front line of vision care is evolving — are you up to date? Join us for the Doheny Annual CME Conference The Front Line of Vision Care: Cornea, Ocular Surface, and Refractive Advances Saturday, March 21, 2026 This year’s program will focus on practical, real-world topics that directly impact surgical planning and patient outcomes, including: • Ocular surface optimization before cataract and refractive surgery • Managing dry eye and surface disease that affect imaging and outcomes • Updates that influence surgical decision-making and patient satisfaction We’re honored to welcome Kathryn Colby, MD, PhD, Chair of Ophthalmology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Director of NYU Langone Eye Center, as our Irvine Memorial Lecturer. Earn up to 7 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Featuring Doheny-UCLA cornea and refractive faculty and alumni. Learn more: doheny.org/events #DohenyUCLA #CME #Cornea #RefractiveSurgery #DryEye #Ophthalmology