Originally from Nashville, Dr. Linville grew up in Birmingham, Alabama.  Returning to Tennessee, he matriculated at the University of Tennessee earning a baccalaureate degree in chemistry.  He received the doctor of medicine from East Tennessee State University and subsequently completed an internship in general surgery at ETSU.  Since 2001, he has been a faculty member in the Section of Medical Education.  In 2007 and 2008, Dr. Linville served as Interim Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs, overseeing and directing the four year medical student curriculum.

Dr. Linville serves as Assistant Dean and Director of Operations for the college.  He also is currently serving as acting Associate Vice President and Executive Director of the Office of Rural and Community Health and Community Partnerships.  He maintains his position as associate professor in medical education, serving as director of the second year practice of medicine course.  He currently holds adjunct positions in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and department of Pharmacy Practice in the College of Pharmacy.  His interests are in medical education, medical simulation, and curriculum development.