The problem of coherent control in non-Markovian open quantum systems

TL;DR

This paper critiques common assumptions in controlling non-Markovian open quantum systems, emphasizing the need for a full microscopic model to accurately describe system dynamics under noise.

Contribution

It reveals the limitations of the fixed-dissipator assumption and advocates for a comprehensive microscopic approach in non-Markovian quantum control.

Findings

Fixed-dissipator assumption causes modeling difficulties.

Full microscopic description is necessary for accurate control.

Illustrated with a paradigmatic example.

Abstract

We critically evaluate the most widespread assumption in the theoretical description of coherent control strategies for open quantum systems. We show that, for non-Markovian open systems dynamics, this fixed-dissipator assumption leads to a serious pitfall causing insurmountable difficulties in the effective modelling of the controlled system. We show that the only way to avoid these problems is a full microscopic description of the controlled system in presence of noise. We illustrate our findings with a paradigmatic example.