Open Quantum Systems
Module convenor:
Kay Brandner (kay.brandner@nottingham.ac.uk)
Format:
5 weeks, 2 1-hour lectures per week, online on Zoom
Dates:
30 Mar 2027 - 30 Apr 2027
Times:
Tue & Fri, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Assessment:
5 marked exercise sheets, 1 per week
Outline:
This module provides an introduction to the theory of open quantum systems, that is, quantum systems influenced by interactions with their environment, from two complementary perspectives. Part I takes an axiomatic approach based on quantum stochastic processes, considering both trajectory and ensemble representations. Part II discusses the microscopic approach, in which open quantum systems are described by eliminating environmental degrees of freedom from Hamiltonian models. The overall aim of this module is to provide an introductory overview of the methodology widely used to describe open quantum systems in areas ranging from quantum optics, atomic and solid-state physics to quantum chemistry.