Born in Bordeaux, France, Arnaud Jay has always had a natural curiosity for chemistry. This passion first led him to earn a university diploma in chemistry at the University of Toulouse, followed by a bachelor’s degree. What began as a strong academic interest has since grown into a career spanning more than ten years in research and development at RYAM.
His journey with the company started with an internship. While completing his studies, he secured a four-month placement at Tembec, which later became RYAM. When the internship ended, no permanent position was available, so he joined another company. A year later, Christelle Michaud reached out to offer him a new role. He accepted, and since 2013, he has been part of the RYAM team.
Today, he plays a central role in the post-hydrolysis bioethanol project, working closely with Valentina Rousseau and Lucas Dollié. What began as a simple lab trial has grown into larger-scale testing aimed at optimizing production. By adding a pretreatment step before fermentation, the team increases sugar yields, which improves bioethanol production efficiency. Following a trial run in Tartas last July, the team is now analyzing the results and preparing a debrief with colleagues at the plant. For Arnaud, it is thrilling to watch an idea progress from a laboratory experiment into a real-world solution.
Even though his responsibilities now extend beyond the lab, he still enjoys taking part directly in experiments. He believes the balance between technical work and managerial duties brings variety to his days. One moment he might be troubleshooting equipment or helping a new employee; the next, he’s guiding the team as a project evolves. “When I worked only in the lab, my days were predictable,” he explains. “Now, every day is different.”
That very unpredictability is what fuels his passion for R&D. For him, the excitement lies in testing, problem-solving, and following a project from start to finish. “It gives me a complete perspective and deeper knowledge, which is very motivating,” he says. He admits he doesn’t follow a rigid method to keep up with new technologies. Instead, he learns organically—by tackling challenges as they come and imagining innovative solutions on the spot.
Asked what advice he would give to someone considering a career in R&D, he emphasizes curiosity, flexibility, and resilience. Projects can shift suddenly, and priorities can change overnight. “What’s urgent today might not be tomorrow. You have to stay open, adaptable, and able to manage several tasks at once,” he says. He adds that asking questions is one of the best ways to keep learning. Outside of work, Arnaud stays active through sport. A competitive handball player for over 24 years, he still trains weekly and plays in a local league. Running also helps him maintain balance and focus.
If he could travel anywhere, New Zealand would be at the top of his list for its landscapes and rugby culture.
Whether in the lab, on the handball court, or working alongside colleagues, he describes himself as precise and team-oriented, though sometimes impatient. Above all, he aims to help build an environment where everyone can thrive and succeed.
“Every day is different—and that’s exactly what I love about my work at RYAM.”
