We are currently entering a new technological era in which we are able to build systems whose performance is limited by quantum physical effects and in which it may be possible to exploit non-classical phenomena in novel ways. To this end, there has been considerable recent interest in engineering quantum systems and at the heart of this is the development of a quantum control theory dedicated to extending classical control to the quantum domain. Examples already utilizing control of one sort or another include quantum electromechanical systems, quantum dots, Cooper-pair boxes, superconducting interference devices, ion traps, as well as a large selection of optical devices. It is clear that a mathematical framework is essential for the future development of quantum control as an engineering discipline.

ThemesThe aim of the programme is to bring together experimentalists and theoreticians working in quantum engineering to identify the core mathematical issues and challenges ahead. The challenges we wish to focus upon (both from the mathematical and experimental viewpoint) are

Quantum filtering and the application to quantum measurement and metrologyQuantum open-loop schemesQuantum feedback networks and the design of quantum controllersQuantum statistics and estimation and the connection with filtering and controlQuantum information processing and its relevance to quantum control and error correctionActivitiesThe nature of this field is strongly cross-disciplinary and we aim to give introductory seminars in the underpinning concepts of quantum open systems modelling, and mathematical control theory. We plan to hold a workshop "Principles and Applications of Control in Quantum Systems 2014" during the programme which will survey the current state of development. We also wish to hold a number of round table discussions focussing on future directions and their exploitation.