The Current Reality of Quantum Computing | Yudong Cao on Deploying Quantum for Real-Life Problems

In this eye-opening episode, former Zapata Computing CEO Yudong Chen reveals the sobering truth about quantum computing's potential impact on drug discovery and the industry's inflated market expectations. Chen explains why even with perfect quantum chemistry calculations, the business case for quantum computing in pharmaceuticals falls dramatically short of the billions being invested, with a total addressable market of only around $100M.

The conversation takes fascinating turns as Chen shares the unusual origin story of Zapata Computing, named after Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata, and traces the company's journey from quantum computing to AI. He provides crucial insights into the field's future, discussing the emerging quantum winter and why government funding, rather than venture capital, may be the path forward. The episode concludes with Chen's compelling vision for advancing quantum computing through focused application development and the need for standardized infrastructure.

02:19 The Origin Story of Zapata Computing
04:27 Early Challenges and Realizations in Quantum Chemistry
06:22 Exploring Optimization and Machine Learning
15:46 Understanding Variational Quantum Algorithms
29:11 Quantum Computing in Drug Discovery and Industry
34:33 Economic Impact and Future of Quantum Computing
01:01:35 Classical Chips vs Quantum Devices
01:19:40 Reflections on Zapata's IPO and Market Dynamics
01:24:12 Future of Quantum Computing and Personal Insights

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