  We present a self-contained theoretical and computational framework for
dynamics following photoexcitation in quantum dots near planar interfaces. A
microscopic Hamiltonian parameterized by first principles calculations is
merged with a reduced density matrix formalism that allows for the prediction
of time-dependent charge and energy transfer processes between the quantum dot
and the electrode. While treating charge and energy transfer processes on an
equal footing, the non-perturbative effects of sudden charge transitions on the
Fermi sea of the electrode are included. We illustrate the formalism with
calculations of an InAs quantum dot coupled to the Shockley state on an Au[111]
surface, and use it to concretely discuss the wide range of kinetics possible
in these systems and their implications for photovoltaic systems and tunnel
junction devices. We discuss the utility of this framework for the analysis of
recent experiments.
