Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Log inSign up
Challenges
Datasets
Workspaces
Papers
Discussions
Leaderboard
Blog
Job Board
Q3AS

© 2026 Aqora Quantum S.A.S.

TermsPrivacyLegal Notice

Proceedings of SPIE, the International Society for Optical Engineering/Proceedings of SPIE

Control of quantum phenomena through evolutionary engineering: let the system do the thinking

Herschel H. Rabitz, Bruno Bosacchi

Published Dec 1, 2002• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

We discuss a successful application of evolutionary algorithms and femtosecond pulse-shaping technology to the coherent control of quantum phenomena. After a brief review of the field of quantum control, we show how evolutionary algorithms provide an effective and, so far, the only general solution to the problem of managing the complex interplay of interference effects which characterize quantum phenomena. A representative list of experimental results is presented, and some directions for future developments are discussed. The success of evolutionary algorithms in quantum control is seen as a significant step in the evolution of computational intelligence, from evolutionary algorithms, to evolutionary programming, to evolutionary engineering, whereby a hardware system organizes itself and evolves on line to achieve a desired result.

DOI
10.1117/12.455860

Related papers

Control of quantum phenomena: past, present and future

Constantin Brif, Raj Chakrabarti, Herschel Rabitz

Quantum control is concerned with active manipulation of physical and chemical processes on the atomic and molecular scale. This work presents a perspective of progress in the field of control over quantum phenomena, tracing the evolution of theoretical concepts and experimental methods from early developments to the most recent advances. Among numerous theoretical insights and technological improvements that produced the present state-of-the-art in quantum control, there have been several breakthroughs of foremost importance. On the technology side, the current experimental successes would be impossible without the development of intense femtosecond laser sources and pulse shapers. On the theory side, the two most critical insights were (i) realizing that ultrafast atomic and molecular dynamics can be controlled via manipulation of quantum interferences and (ii) understanding that optimally shaped ultrafast laser pulses are the most effective means for producing the desired quantum interference patterns in the controlled system. Finally, these theoretical and experimental advances were brought together by the crucial concept of adaptive feedback control (AFC), which is a laboratory procedure employing measurement-driven, closed-loop optimization to identify the best shapes of femtosecond laser control pulses for steering quantum dynamics towards the desired objective. Optimization in AFC experiments is guided by a learning algorithm, with stochastic methods proving to be especially effective. AFC of quantum phenomena has found numerous applications in many areas of the physical and chemical sciences, and this paper reviews the extensive experiments. Other subjects discussed include quantum optimal control theory, quantum control landscapes, the role of theoretical control designs in experimental realizations and real-time quantum feedback control. The paper concludes with a perspective of open research directions that are likely to attract significant attention in the future.

arXiv:0912.5121•New Journal of Physics•Jul 1, 2010•923 citations

Control of quantum phenomena: past, present and future

Constantin Brif, Raj Chakrabarti, HERSCHEL A. RABITZ

Quantum control is concerned with active manipulation of physical and chemical processes on the atomic and molecular scale. This work presents a perspective of progress in the field of control over quantum phenomena, tracing the evolution of theoretical concepts and experimental methods from early developments to the most recent advances. Among numerous theoretical insights and technological improvements that produced the present state-of-the-art in quantum control, there have been several breakthroughs of foremost importance. On the technology side, the current experimental successes would be impossible without the development of intense femtosecond laser sources and pulse shapers. On the theory side, the two most critical insights were (i) realizing that ultrafast atomic and molecular dynamics can be controlled via manipulation of quantum interferences and (ii) understanding that optimally shaped ultrafast laser pulses are the most effective means for producing the desired quantum interference patterns in the controlled system. Finally, these theoretical and experimental advances were brought together by the crucial concept of adaptive feedback control (AFC), which is a laboratory procedure employing measurement-driven, closed-loop optimization to identify the best shapes of femtosecond laser control pulses for steering quantum dynamics towards the desired objective. Optimization in AFC experiments is guided by a learning algorithm, with stochastic methods proving to be especially effective. AFC of quantum phenomena has found numerous applications in many areas of the physical and chemical sciences, and this paper reviews the extensive experiments. Other subjects discussed include quantum optimal control theory, quantum control landscapes, the role of theoretical control designs in experimental realizations and real-time quantum feedback control. The paper concludes with a perspective of open research directions that are likely to attract significant attention in the future.

•Jan 1, 2010•500 citations

Evolutionary Algorithms and Quantum Computing—Pioneering the Next Era of Intelligence and Innovation

A. Suresh, B. Rupa Devi, R Roopa +3 more

Quantum computing and evolutionary algorithms are collaborating and combining to create a new era of computational problem-solving. Natural-selection-based evolution algorithms have demonstrated efficacy in optimizing complicated systems by iteratively improving solutions. However, quantum computing offers an entirely novel technique to handle information using superposition and entanglement, potentially accelerating optimization procedures. This study examines the theoretical underpinnings and practical implications of recent developments in quantum-enhanced evolutionary algorithms. A unique case study on 5G networks demonstrates the application of these methods to optimization problems in next-generation communication systems. We also emphasize their influence in fields where quantum-assisted evolutionary techniques spur innovation, such as financial modeling, bioinformatics, machine learning, and cryptography. Despite their revolutionary promise, several obstacles remain, such as the scalability of quantum hardware, noise sensitivity, and converting conventional evolutionary mechanisms to quantum frameworks. Developing hybrid quantum-classical and novel optimization approaches will be crucial in advancing artificial intelligence, data analytics, and decision-making systems. The author combines quantum computing with evolutionary principles to explain an advanced computational framework that has diverse scientific concepts as well as industrial applications.

CRC Press eBooks•Nov 28, 2025•0 citations

Quantum-Inspired Evolutionary Algorithms for Optimization Problems

Jincheng Zhang

This paper investigates the application of quantum-inspired techniques to enhance the performance of evolutionary algorithms (EAs) for solving complex optimization problems. Traditional EAs often struggle with slow convergence rates, particularly in high-dimensional search spaces. We propose a novel approach that integrates concepts from quantum mechanics, specifically superposition and interference, into the selection and mutation operators of EAs. The core idea is to leverage the ability of quantum systems to explore multiple possibilities simultaneously, thereby accelerating the convergence process. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this hybrid algorithm through theoretical analysis and illustrate its potential through detailed mathematical formulations. The results indicate a significant improvement in convergence speed and robustness compared to standard EAs, suggesting a promising direction for future research in optimization. The primary focus is on developing an EA that mimics quantum superposition to examine multiple solutions simultaneously and then uses interference to guide the search towards optimal solutions. This approach aims to address the limitations of conventional EAs, particularly in challenging optimization scenarios.

•Aug 29, 2026•0 citations

Quantum evolutionary programming

Bart Rylander, Terry Soule, James A. Foster +1 more

Recent developments in quantum technology have shown that quantum computers can provide dramatic advantages over classical computers for some problems [1] [2]. These quantum algorithms rely upon the inherent parallel qualities of quantum computers to achieve their improvement. In this paper we provide a brief background of quantum computers. We present a simple quantum approach to genetic algorithms and analyze its benefits and drawbacks. We describe the quantum advantage of true randomness. We show that in some cases, such as program induction, there is a measurable difference [3]. These algorithms are significant because to date there are only a handful of quantum algorithms that take advantage of quantum parallelism [4] and none that show an advantage due to true randomness. Finally, we provide ideas for directions of future research.

Genetic and Evolutionary Computation Conference (GECCO)•Jul 7, 2001•28 citations

Advances in Quantum Engineering: Harnessing Quantum Phenomena for Practical Applications

Swapnil Kumar

Quantum engineering represents a burgeoning field at the intersection of quantum mechanics, engineering, and technology, aimed at harnessing the unique properties of quantum systems for practical applications. This paper provides an overview of recent advances in quantum engineering and explores the diverse array of applications enabled by quantum phenomena. From quantum computing and quantum communication to quantum sensing and metrology, quantum engineering promises to revolutionize various domains by offering unprecedented capabilities for processing and manipulating information, sensing and detecting signals, and simulating complex systems. By leveraging the principles of superposition, entanglement, and coherence, researchers are developing novel quantum devices and technologies with the potential to transform industries ranging from healthcare and telecommunications to finance and materials science. developments in quantum engineering, highlights emerging trends and challenges, and outlines future directions for research and innovation in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.

Journal of Quantum Science and Technology.•Mar 31, 2024•0 citations
We discuss a successful application of evolutionary algorithms and femtosecond pulse-shaping technology to the coherent control of quantum phenomena. After a brief review of the field of quantum control, we show how evolutionary algorithms provide an effective and, so far, the only general solution to the problem of managing the complex interplay of interference effects which characterize quantum phenomena. A representative list of experimental results is presented, and some directions for future developments are discussed. The success of evolutionary algorithms in quantum control is seen as a significant step in the evolution of computational intelligence, from evolutionary algorithms, to evolutionary programming, to evolutionary engineering, whereby a hardware system organizes itself and evolves on line to achieve a desired result.
Quantum control is concerned with active manipulation of physical and chemical processes on the atomic and molecular scale. This work presents a perspective of progress in the field of control over quantum phenomena, tracing the evolution of theoretical concepts and experimental methods from early developments to the most recent advances. Among numerous theoretical insights and technological improvements that produced the present state-of-the-art in quantum control, there have been several breakthroughs of foremost importance. On the technology side, the current experimental successes would be impossible without the development of intense femtosecond laser sources and pulse shapers. On the theory side, the two most critical insights were (i) realizing that ultrafast atomic and molecular dynamics can be controlled via manipulation of quantum interferences and (ii) understanding that optimally shaped ultrafast laser pulses are the most effective means for producing the desired quantum interference patterns in the controlled system. Finally, these theoretical and experimental advances were brought together by the crucial concept of adaptive feedback control (AFC), which is a laboratory procedure employing measurement-driven, closed-loop optimization to identify the best shapes of femtosecond laser control pulses for steering quantum dynamics towards the desired objective. Optimization in AFC experiments is guided by a learning algorithm, with stochastic methods proving to be especially effective. AFC of quantum phenomena has found numerous applications in many areas of the physical and chemical sciences, and this paper reviews the extensive experiments. Other subjects discussed include quantum optimal control theory, quantum control landscapes, the role of theoretical control designs in experimental realizations and real-time quantum feedback control. The paper concludes with a perspective of open research directions that are likely to attract significant attention in the future.
Quantum control is concerned with active manipulation of physical and chemical processes on the atomic and molecular scale. This work presents a perspective of progress in the field of control over quantum phenomena, tracing the evolution of theoretical concepts and experimental methods from early developments to the most recent advances. Among numerous theoretical insights and technological improvements that produced the present state-of-the-art in quantum control, there have been several breakthroughs of foremost importance. On the technology side, the current experimental successes would be impossible without the development of intense femtosecond laser sources and pulse shapers. On the theory side, the two most critical insights were (i) realizing that ultrafast atomic and molecular dynamics can be controlled via manipulation of quantum interferences and (ii) understanding that optimally shaped ultrafast laser pulses are the most effective means for producing the desired quantum interference patterns in the controlled system. Finally, these theoretical and experimental advances were brought together by the crucial concept of adaptive feedback control (AFC), which is a laboratory procedure employing measurement-driven, closed-loop optimization to identify the best shapes of femtosecond laser control pulses for steering quantum dynamics towards the desired objective. Optimization in AFC experiments is guided by a learning algorithm, with stochastic methods proving to be especially effective. AFC of quantum phenomena has found numerous applications in many areas of the physical and chemical sciences, and this paper reviews the extensive experiments. Other subjects discussed include quantum optimal control theory, quantum control landscapes, the role of theoretical control designs in experimental realizations and real-time quantum feedback control. The paper concludes with a perspective of open research directions that are likely to attract significant attention in the future.
Quantum computing and evolutionary algorithms are collaborating and combining to create a new era of computational problem-solving. Natural-selection-based evolution algorithms have demonstrated efficacy in optimizing complicated systems by iteratively improving solutions. However, quantum computing offers an entirely novel technique to handle information using superposition and entanglement, potentially accelerating optimization procedures. This study examines the theoretical underpinnings and practical implications of recent developments in quantum-enhanced evolutionary algorithms. A unique case study on 5G networks demonstrates the application of these methods to optimization problems in next-generation communication systems. We also emphasize their influence in fields where quantum-assisted evolutionary techniques spur innovation, such as financial modeling, bioinformatics, machine learning, and cryptography. Despite their revolutionary promise, several obstacles remain, such as the scalability of quantum hardware, noise sensitivity, and converting conventional evolutionary mechanisms to quantum frameworks. Developing hybrid quantum-classical and novel optimization approaches will be crucial in advancing artificial intelligence, data analytics, and decision-making systems. The author combines quantum computing with evolutionary principles to explain an advanced computational framework that has diverse scientific concepts as well as industrial applications.
This paper investigates the application of quantum-inspired techniques to enhance the performance of evolutionary algorithms (EAs) for solving complex optimization problems. Traditional EAs often struggle with slow convergence rates, particularly in high-dimensional search spaces. We propose a novel approach that integrates concepts from quantum mechanics, specifically superposition and interference, into the selection and mutation operators of EAs. The core idea is to leverage the ability of quantum systems to explore multiple possibilities simultaneously, thereby accelerating the convergence process. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this hybrid algorithm through theoretical analysis and illustrate its potential through detailed mathematical formulations. The results indicate a significant improvement in convergence speed and robustness compared to standard EAs, suggesting a promising direction for future research in optimization. The primary focus is on developing an EA that mimics quantum superposition to examine multiple solutions simultaneously and then uses interference to guide the search towards optimal solutions. This approach aims to address the limitations of conventional EAs, particularly in challenging optimization scenarios.
Recent developments in quantum technology have shown that quantum computers can provide dramatic advantages over classical computers for some problems [1] [2]. These quantum algorithms rely upon the inherent parallel qualities of quantum computers to achieve their improvement. In this paper we provide a brief background of quantum computers. We present a simple quantum approach to genetic algorithms and analyze its benefits and drawbacks. We describe the quantum advantage of true randomness. We show that in some cases, such as program induction, there is a measurable difference [3]. These algorithms are significant because to date there are only a handful of quantum algorithms that take advantage of quantum parallelism [4] and none that show an advantage due to true randomness. Finally, we provide ideas for directions of future research.
Quantum engineering represents a burgeoning field at the intersection of quantum mechanics, engineering, and technology, aimed at harnessing the unique properties of quantum systems for practical applications. This paper provides an overview of recent advances in quantum engineering and explores the diverse array of applications enabled by quantum phenomena. From quantum computing and quantum communication to quantum sensing and metrology, quantum engineering promises to revolutionize various domains by offering unprecedented capabilities for processing and manipulating information, sensing and detecting signals, and simulating complex systems. By leveraging the principles of superposition, entanglement, and coherence, researchers are developing novel quantum devices and technologies with the potential to transform industries ranging from healthcare and telecommunications to finance and materials science. developments in quantum engineering, highlights emerging trends and challenges, and outlines future directions for research and innovation in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.