| This dissertation presents theoretical studies of charge carrier dynamics in layered semiconductor heterostructures. Carrier dynamics are investigated by solving the Schrödinger equation numerically on a grid. Control methods are used to discover laser pulses that actively manipulate and control dynamics in quantum well systems. Results indicate that a wide array of possible target objectives can be achieved successfully using simple, experimentally feasible electric fields.; A tailored laser pulse can drive an electronic wave packet to maximum overlap with a target distribution at a specified time. A genetic algorithm is used to determine the optimal parameters of the excitation pulse. The robustness of the results is analyzed by considering fluctuations in the do field, two types of sample defects, and environmental coupling. In all cases studied, the genetic algorithm can re-optimize the laser field to achieve the control objective.; The effects of Coulomb interactions with regard to controlling wave packets in quantum wells are investigated. The goal is to clarify the extent that the attraction between electrons and holes affects control. The primary effect is to modify the energy splittings, which induces small changes in oscillation period and frequency of the wave packet. The results show that the interaction does not substantially affect the control, yet can alter dynamics in some cases.; Quantum wells are sources of controllable radiation. Oscillating wave packets in the conduction band typically radiate in the Terahertz frequency regime. The frequency and amplitude of the radiation is tunable by altering excitation conditions. Terahertz fields can be designed by controlling the characteristics of the emission, and used as excitation sources for other applications.; Electronic population can be switched adiabatically between quantum wells. A time-dependent do field guides an initial state along a smooth path to a target state. The general requirements for adiabaticity are determined. Successfully meeting the requirements produces a pure state that evolves adiabatically to the final state. This procedure provides an effective method for adiabatic passage with smooth transitions, selectivity, and reversibility. |
