Mind the gap
ORAL · Invited
Abstract
In recent years, quantum computing has made tremendous strides, bringing us to an exciting juncture. However, this progress also presents new challenges, particularly when it comes to understanding the true potential and limitations of quantum computers. This talk will explore both the promise and the obstacles facing quantum computing today. We will begin by examining the theoretical advantages of quantum computing in combinatorial optimization [1].
While the potential is clear, there remains a significant gap between these theoretical results and their practical application to real-world problems. Next, we will explore the quantum advantages found in constant-depth quantum circuits [2], though, once again, the journey to applying these findings effectively in machine learning is far from straightforward. The talk will also address the current limitations in quantum error mitigation [3, 4], highlighting the challenges we face before achieving fully fault-tolerant quantum architectures. In relation to quantum error correction [5], we will argue that it is essential to set intermediate goals as we work toward building a fault-tolerant quantum computer - metaphorically speaking, to “mind the gap”. Despite these challenges, this talk will conclude on an optimistic note, emphasizing the rapid pace of progress in the field and the exciting possibilities ahead.
[1] Science Advances 10, eadj5170 (2024).
[2] arXiv:2411.15548 (2024).
[3] Nature Phys. 20, 1648 (2024).
[4] arXiv:2403.13927 (2024).
[5] arXiv:2407.08566, PRX Quantum (2025).
While the potential is clear, there remains a significant gap between these theoretical results and their practical application to real-world problems. Next, we will explore the quantum advantages found in constant-depth quantum circuits [2], though, once again, the journey to applying these findings effectively in machine learning is far from straightforward. The talk will also address the current limitations in quantum error mitigation [3, 4], highlighting the challenges we face before achieving fully fault-tolerant quantum architectures. In relation to quantum error correction [5], we will argue that it is essential to set intermediate goals as we work toward building a fault-tolerant quantum computer - metaphorically speaking, to “mind the gap”. Despite these challenges, this talk will conclude on an optimistic note, emphasizing the rapid pace of progress in the field and the exciting possibilities ahead.
[1] Science Advances 10, eadj5170 (2024).
[2] arXiv:2411.15548 (2024).
[3] Nature Phys. 20, 1648 (2024).
[4] arXiv:2403.13927 (2024).
[5] arXiv:2407.08566, PRX Quantum (2025).
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Presenters
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Jens Eisert
Freie Universität Berlin, FU Berlin
Authors
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Jens Eisert
Freie Universität Berlin, FU Berlin