Lifetime achievement

Dr. Carolyn Primus, adjunct professor in endodontics at Texas A&M College of Dentistry, has received the inaugural Larry L. Hench Lifetime Achievement Award for innovation and translation from the American Ceramic Society’s Bioceramics Division.

The award, which was presented during the Materials Science & Technology virtual conference held Nov. 2-6, recognizes dedication, vision and accomplishments in advancing the field of bioceramics.

The founder of Houston-based Avalon Biomed Advanced Bioceramics, Primus has dedicated 30 years to dental materials research and development, resulting in more than a dozen patented inventions. Her inventing and developing of bioceramic dental cements have led to six patents and one pending.

Since 2008, Primus has actively encouraged student participation in research and collaborated with the clinical and research faculty in the dental school’s departments of biomedical sciences and endodontics.

“Several faculty members benefited from sponsored research agreements with Dr. Primus and her companies and have published research using materials she developed,” said Dr. Lynne Opperman, Regents Professor and biomedical sciences department head. Praising Primus’ generosity with her time and expertise related to materials research and development, Opperman said “I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this accolade.”