Communities associating algae and other microorganisms have a tremendous potential for environmental and biotechnological applications. The exploitation of these communities raises theoretical and practical challenges in mathematical modelling, optimization and control. In the Ctrl-AB project, we aim at developing new control methods to maximize productivity of a synthetic algal-bacterial community, and at demonstrating their effectiveness on state-of-the-art experimental platforms. We will develop coarse-grained models of the community dynamics, and leverage classical model-based and new data-driven methods for optimal controller design. We will exploit cutting-edge experimental technologies to develop molecular sensors and actuators enabling implementation of the control strategies. The Ctrl-AB project is carried out by a strong interdisciplinary consortium and will make novel contributions in control theory, mathematical biology and metabolic engineering.

Ctrl-AB is supported by the French National Research Agency (ANR) under project  (ANR-20-CE45-0014).