University of Utah Health announced that David B. Larson, MD, MBA, will become the chair of the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences in the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine. His leadership role is scheduled to begin on September 14, 2026.
Larson's professional background and experience
Larson arrives at the University of Utah from Stanford University, where he held various leadership positions over the last ten years. During his time at Stanford, he served as executive vice chair and acting chair of the Department of Radiology, and currently holds roles as medical director of improvement for Stanford Health Care and director of the Stanford Radiology AI Development and Evaluation Lab.
Dean Duffin praises Larson's leadership
Kristina Callis Duffin, MD, MS, dean of the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, stated that Larson is an accomplished leader, researcher, and educator with experience across the academic mission. She noted his proven history of fostering innovation and managing complex organizations through growth.
Larson's education and Utah roots
A Utah native, Larson previously practiced pediatric radiology on the Wasatch Front during part of his early career. He completed his medical and business degrees at Yale University and finished his residency and fellowship training at the University of Colorado.
Expertise in clinical operations and training
Larson's professional background includes leading clinical operations, faculty development, and strategic planning at Stanford. He has also developed various leadership and improvement programs that have trained thousands of healthcare professionals in systems thinking and quality improvement.
National recognition and leadership roles
Beyond his institutional roles, Larson is recognized nationally for his work in patient safety, quality improvement, and the use of artificial intelligence in medicine. He serves as Vice President of the American College of Radiology and on the Board of Trustees of the American Board of Radiology.
Larson's vision for the department
Larson expressed honor in joining the University of Utah community and stated his excitement to work with faculty and staff to expand the department's impact and advance the future of radiology for patients and families.
Larson will succeed Satoshi Minoshima, MD, PhD, who led the department for over ten years, as well as Charles Chuck Ray, MD, PhD, who has served as interim chair since September 2025. The department aims to continue its mission of research, education, and patient care under this new leadership.
