An introduction to quantum computing for statisticians and data scientists

Abstract

Quantum computers promise to surpass the most powerful classical supercomputers in tackling critical practical problems, such as designing pharmaceuticals and fertilizers, optimizing supply chains and traffic, and enhancing machine learning. Since quantum computers operate fundamentally differently from classical ones, their emergence will give rise to a new evolutionary branch of statistical and data analytics methodologies. This review aims to provide an introduction to quantum computing accessible to statisticians and data scientists, equipping them with a comprehensive framework, the basic language, and building blocks of quantum algorithms, as well as an overview of existing quantum applications in statistics and data analysis. Our objective is to empower statisticians and data scientists to follow quantum computing literature relevant to their fields, collaborate with quantum algorithm designers, and ultimately drive the development of the next generation of statistical and data analytics tools.