US geologists at the Rothera Base in Antarctica celebrated President Barack Obama's inauguration and expressed optimism for an increased focus on science. David Barbeau, an assistant professor of geology at the University of South Carolina, mentioned that there is a sense of excitement about the new administration prioritizing science. He also mentioned feeling inspired by Obama's pledge to double basic research funding over the next decade. Amanda Savrda, a graduate student working with Barbeau, echoed these sentiments and expressed hope for a future that values and supports scientific endeavors. "It appears to signal a positive outlook for both my future and the future of many individuals in the field of science," she stated. Barbeau and Savrda are currently attempting to determine the precise timeframe in which the ocean formed between Antarctica and South America millions of years ago. Meanwhile, at the Rothera base, additional scientists are conducting research on a variety of subjects ranging from ice sheets to starfish in order to identify how they might be impacted by climate change. Obama has made a commitment to prioritizing the battle against global warming. In contrast, former President George W. Bush caused frustration among numerous scientists and foreign governments when he chose not to adopt the Kyoto Protocol in 2001, which is the primary UN initiative aimed at combating climate change. Every other industrialized country supports the Kyoto Protocol.