  We investigate whether and how the quantum Zeno effect, i.e., the inhibition
of quantum evolution by frequent measurements, can be employed to isolate a
quantum dot from its surrounding electron reservoir. In contrast to the often
studied case of tunneling between discrete levels, we consider the tunnelling
of an electron from a continuum reservoir to a discrete level in the dot.
Realizing the quantum Zeno effect in this scenario can be much harder because
the measurements should be repeated before the wave packet of the hole left
behind in the reservoir moves away from the vicinity of the dot. Thus, the
required repetition rate could be lowered by having a flat band (with a slow
group velocity) in resonance with the dot or a sufficiently small Fermi
velocity or a strong external magnetic field. We also consider the anti-Zeno
effect, i.e., how measurements can accelerate or enable quantum evolution.
