Ruth Ella Moore

Ruth Ella Moore
Photograph of Ruth Ella Moore
Ruth Ella Moore
Born(1903-05-19)May 19, 1903
DiedJuly 19, 1994 (aged 91)
Alma mater
Known for
Scientific career
InstitutionsHoward University

Ruth Ella Moore (May 19, 1903 – July 19, 1994[1]) was an American bacteriologist and microbiologist, who, in 1933, became the first African-American woman to be awarded a Ph.D. in a natural science.[2] She was a professor of bacteriology at Howard University. A decade later, she was installed as the head of the department of bacteriology, which she renamed to the department of microbiology. During that period she was promoted to associate professor of microbiology.

She published her research on tuberculosis, immunology, dental caries, the response of gut microorganisms to antibiotics, and the blood types of African-Americans.

Although there are gaps in the official personnel records of the university, Moore is believed to have continued to teach and conduct her research at Howard until 1973, after which she held the position of associate professor emeritus of microbiology until 1990.

Moore also gained recognition as a fashion designer.

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Washington Post was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Warren, Wini (1999). Black women scientists in the United States. Bloomington, Ind. [u.a.]: Indiana University Press. ISBN 978-0253336033.