Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs) represent the largest known volcanic events on the Earth, yet they are not easily explained by normal plate tectonic processes. In order to test competing mantle plume and plate tectonic models for LIP formation, IODP Expedition 324 drilled Shatsky Rise in the northwest Pacific Ocean in 2009. This session is focused on, but not restricted to, Expedition 324. We welcome all relevant studies on LIPs in the Pacific Ocean and its rim.