'Curious Conversations' podcast: Tina Dura talks about subduction zones, earthquakes, and tsunamis
Tina Dura joined Virginia Tech’s “Curious Conversations” to talk about subduction zones, particularly the Cascadia Subduction Zone, earthquakes, and tsunamis. She explained the mechanics of earthquakes and how the geological record and fossilized algae are helping researchers better understand past occurrences and predict future ones. Dura emphasized the importance of translating scientific research into actionable information for the public, especially regarding tsunami preparedness and community resilience.
About Dura
Dura is an assistant professor in the Department of Geosciences and an affiliate of the Global Change Center, where she leads Virginia Tech’s Coastal Hazards Lab. Her research specializes in subduction zone paleogeodesy, which combines a variety of scientific methods to reconstruct long-term histories of coseismic vertical deformation and tsunami inundation along subduction zone coastlines.
Takeaways
A subduction zone is where two tectonic plates collide, and subduction zones can create the largest earthquakes on Earth.
Diatoms are microscopic algae that help record environmental changes. Their fossils can be used to better understand the impact of past earthquakes and tsunamis.
Understanding geological records helps predict future earthquakes and helps people better prepare, reducing fear and improving safety.
Learn more
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About the podcast
"Curious Conversations" is a series of free-flowing conversations with Virginia Tech researchers that take place at the intersection of world-class research and everyday life. Produced and hosted by Travis Williams, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Office of Research and Innovation, university researchers share their expertise and motivations as well as the practical applications of their work in a format that more closely resembles chats at a cookout than classroom lectures. New episodes are shared each Tuesday.
