Conferințe Quantum Theory Meets Machine Learning și Probing Quantum Reality: From Theory to Hardware, Prof. Roberto Giuntini

We are delighted to announce that, in the context of the activities of Dr Claudio Ternullo’s research project: “Self-Similarity, Large Cardinals and Incompleteness”, Prof Roberto Giuntini (University of Cagliari, Technische Universität, Munich) will be giving two lectures at the Department of Philosophy on 19-20 June, 2025.
 
Quantum Theory Meets Machine Learning - 19 June, 2-4pm, Room D.D. Roșca
 
In recent years, the convergence of machine learning and quantum theory has opened a new interdisciplinary frontier, inspiring novel approaches to classification, pattern recognition, and the nature of conceptual representation. This talk explores how the mathematical formalism of quantum theory can be employed—even on classical devices—to enhance classification tasks typically addressed by machine learning. Drawing on ideas from logic, cognitive science, and philosophy, I present a framework in which classical datasets are encoded into quantum states and analyzed via quantum-inspired classifiers. Particular attention is given to the Helstrom classifier, which leverages quantum distinguishability to improve classification accuracy. By discussing both theoretical foundations and practical applications, the talk aims to show how quantum formalisms might not only accelerate computation, but also reshape our understanding of abstract concepts and inductive inference.
 
Probing Quantum Reality: From Theory to Hardware - 20 June, 2-4pm, Room D.D. Roșca
 
Quantum computers challenge not only our engineering capabilities, but also our deepest conceptual assumptions about reality, causality, and locality. In this talk, we explore how philosophical tools—often seen as abstract or speculative—can be used to design and interpret concrete experimental protocols for benchmarking quantum devices. We focus on Svetlichny inequalities, which provide scalable and device-independent indicators of genuine multipartite nonlocality. These inequalities are not only theoretical constructs; they serve as practical tools for probing the “quantumness” of hardware. By comparing theoretical and experimental violations across a wide range of random quantum states, we can assess the ability of current platforms (such as IQM and AQT) to preserve core quantum correlations. This talk argues that philosophy of science has a vital, operational role to play in the current quantum revolution—helping to define what it means for a system to be truly quantum.
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 Attendance is free, but registration is required. To register, please send an email to: claudio.ternullo@ubbcluj.ro