Vanderbilt Health remembers C. Leon Partain, former chair of Radiology

February 19, 2026 - 03:39

The field of academic radiology has lost a foundational figure with the passing of Clarence Leon Partain, MD, PhD. The professor emeritus of Radiology and Radiological Sciences at Vanderbilt died on January 28 in Brentwood, Tennessee. He was 85 years old.

Dr. Partain’s pioneering work in nuclear medicine and magnetic resonance imaging left an indelible mark. He joined Vanderbilt in 1980, rising to become the first Carol D. and Henry P. Pendergrass Professor and chair of the department from 1992 to 2000. He later directed the Center for Imaging Research.

A Tennessee native, Dr. Partain’s engineering and medical background fueled a career of immense growth. He was instrumental in bringing the first MRI and PET/CT scanners to the medical center. Under his leadership, clinical studies surged, and the department expanded its research footprint and outpatient imaging services, securing millions in grant funding.

His scholarly influence was profound. Dr. Partain served as editor-in-chief of the Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and was on numerous editorial boards. He authored a seminal early textbook on MRI, over 200 journal articles, and countless book chapters. His professional service included two decades as an examiner for the American Board of Radiology and a term as president of the Radiological Research Alliance.

Dr. Partain received the highest honors from his peers, including Distinguished Service Awards from the American Board of Radiology and the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. He is remembered as a visionary who built Vanderbilt Radiology’s national and international prestige.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judy, their three children, and several grandchildren.