Project Grant 2338181

This Project Grant award of $320,192 from the National Science Foundation's Geosciences Program (CFDA 47.050) supports fundamental research at the University of Washington to investigate the relationship between metamorphic dehydration reactions in subducting oceanic crust and the occurrence of deep slow slip earthquakes in subduction zones. The research aims to provide geologic evidence for the hypothesized role of fluid production from these reactions in generating the high pore fluid pressures that may trigger slow earthquakes. The project will conduct field characterization, petrology, and isotope geochemistry analyses of exhumed subduction zone terranes, as well as develop diffusion chronometry tools to test this causal connection. Additionally, the award includes an education plan to increase public knowledge of subduction zone hazards in the Pacific Northwest through K-12 curriculum development and provide summer research experiences for approximately 18 geoscience undergraduates from diverse backgrounds. This research has the potential to enhance the collective understanding of the seismic cycle in subduction zones and contribute to improved hazard awareness and workforce development in the geosciences.