Ruth is one of the most academically published female marine researchers. She was the first female scientist to use Alvin, the deep submersible research sub for ocean research. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute recognized Ruth as the foremost female Pioneer in Oceanography." She was a biology professor curator in malacology at Harvard University Boston Sea Rovers Diver of the Year (1992) and the female aquanaut who logged the most hours in the Alvin. Ruth also worked with the US Navy Office of Oceanographic Research.