6–11 Dec 2026
Stellenbosch University
Africa/Johannesburg timezone

Quantum Convolutional Neural Network for Phase Recognition in Two Dimensions

9 Dec 2026, 09:40
20m
Jan Mouton Learning Centre (Stellenbosch University)

Jan Mouton Learning Centre

Stellenbosch University

Speaker

Leon C. Sander (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg)

Description

Quantum convolutional neural networks (QCNNs) are quantum circuits for characterizing complex quantum states. They have been proposed for recognizing quantum phases of matter at low sampling cost and have been designed for condensed matter systems in one dimension. Here we construct a QCNN that can perform phase recognition in two dimensions and correctly identify the phase transition from a Toric Code phase with $\mathbb{Z}_2$-topological order to the paramagnetic phase. The network also exhibits a noise threshold up to which the topological order is recognized. Furthermore, it captures correlations between all stabilizer elements of the Toric Code, which cannot be accessed by direct measurements. This increases the threshold for errors leading to such correlations and allows for correctly identifying the topological phase in the presence of strong correlated errors. Our work generalizes phase recognition with QCNNs to higher spatial dimensions and intrinsic topological order, where exploration and characterization via classical numerics become challenging.

Topic Theoretical foundations of quantum learning
Additional Topic Hybrid quantum-classical approaches for learning and optimization

Author

Leon C. Sander (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg)

Co-authors

Mr Nathan A. McMahon (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Leiden University) Petr Zapletal (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, University of Basel) Michael J. Hartmann (Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Quint Computing GmbH)

Presentation materials