Participants will tackle the challenge of implementing a variational quantum cloning machine, as detailed in the provided
research paper. This task involves reproducing the experimental realization of a 1→2 cloning process for photonic qubits, using Perceval to simulate a linear optical circuit. The algorithm, leveraging a classical feedback loop, optimizes cloning fidelity for phase-covariant and state-dependent scenarios. Participants will explore quantum machine learning techniques and photonic platforms, demonstrating the interplay between classical and quantum systems. As a bonus, they may test their implementation on a real quantum computer, deepening their understanding of near-term quantum technologies.