Yudong Cao, co-founder and CTO of Zapata Computing

Yudong Cao, co-founder and CTO of Zapata Computing, is interviewed by Yuval.

Read the full transcript or listen to the episode at the Quantum Computing Report site here

Key points are:

• Generative Modeling and Quantum Computing: Zapata Computing focuses on generative modeling as a near-term application for quantum computing. Generative modeling aims to understand the probability distribution of training samples and serves as the foundation for generative AI technologies like ChatGPT.
• Quantum-Classical Hybrid Approach: Zapata employs a hybrid approach that combines quantum computing with classical machine learning architectures. This allows them to tackle a variety of problems, including image generation and financial portfolio optimization.
• Importance of Tensor Networks: Yudong emphasizes the role of tensor networks as a bridge between classical and quantum computing. These networks can represent high-dimensional, non-linear structures and are closely related to neural networks.
• Industry Applications: Zapata has applied their techniques in various sectors, including finance and manufacturing. For example, they have used generative modeling to optimize financial portfolios, achieving lower risk profiles compared to classical algorithms.
• Need for Robust Tools and Infrastructure: Yudong highlights the importance of having robust tools and infrastructure to facilitate research and applications in quantum computing. This led to the development of Orquestra, a tool designed to be seamless for researchers and developers.
• Future Directions: Yudong sees potential in applying their techniques to variable dimension problems like time series data. He is also interested in applications in the pharma industry, particularly in molecular generation.

Insights for a Business Audience:

• Strategic Investment: Companies should consider strategic investments in quantum computing, particularly in generative modeling, for a competitive edge.
• Risk Management: Financial institutions could benefit from quantum-inspired generative models for portfolio optimization.
• Operational Efficiency: Manufacturing and logistics companies could use quantum computing for complex optimization problems.
• Innovation Focus: Companies should pay attention to the development of quantum-inspired tools.
• Long-Term Planning: Businesses should invest in building robust infrastructure that can adapt to future advancements in quantum computing.

Read the full transcript or listen to the episode at the Quantum Computing Report site here