Feedback control in quantum transport

Abstract

Quantum transport is the study of the motion of electrons through nano-scale structures small enough that quantum effects are important. In this contribution I review recent theoretical proposals to use the techniques of quantum feedback control to manipulate the properties of electron flows and states in quantum-transport devices. Quantum control strategies can be grouped into two broad classes: measurement-based control and coherent control, and both are covered here. I discuss how measurement-based techniques are capable of producing a range of effects, such as noise suppression, stabilisation of nonequillibrium quantum states and the realisation of a nano-electronic Maxwell's demon. I also describe recent results on coherent transport control and its relation to quantum networks.