South Australia's Scientist of the Year, Professor Craig Simmons, who leads the National Centre for Groundwater Research and Training at Flinders, has been named to the roundtable will examine issues related to the development of unconventional hydrocarbon resources such as shale oil and gas.

Professor Simmons' invitation recognises his world-leading research in hydrology and unconventional hydrocarbon development.

He said he was "honoured and excited" by his selection for this important organisation.

"Unconventional gas sources, such as coal seam gas and fraccing, are huge issues in Australia and overseas and I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with the US National Academies to gather, critically examine, and communicate facts and data regarding the scientific, engineering, human and environmental health and safety, regulatory, economic, and societal aspects of unconventional hydrocarbon development," he said.

The US National Academies Roundtable is a joint activity of all US National Academies - the US National Academy of Sciences, the US National Academy of Engineering and the US National Academy of Medicine.

Its members are among the world's most distinguished scientists, engineers, physicians, and researchers; more than 300 members are Nobel Laureates.

The joint US National Academies Roundtable will serve as a neutral forum where experts from government, industry, academia, and non-governmental and international organisations can meet on an ongoing basis and will identify and help to advance activities of broad value to key stakeholders.

It will also assist in informing decision-making about development of these resources.

"It is an incredible opportunity for bilateral and international exchange of ideas, information and experiences on such a critical, complex and contentious issue," Professor Simmons said.