Quantum-Inspired Optimization of Large-Scale Bayesian Networks
Jincheng Zhang
This paper investigates the application of quantum-inspired optimization techniques to the problem of inference and learning within large-scale Bayesian Networks (BNs). Traditional Bayesian Network learning and inference methods often struggle with scalability, particularly as the number of nodes and dependencies increases. We propose leveraging concepts from quantum algorithms, specifically drawing inspiration from quantum annealing and quantum Monte Carlo methods, to efficiently explore the complex search space associated with BN structure optimization and parameter estimation. The core idea is to mimic the exploration capabilities of quantum systems to accelerate the process. The proposed methodology aims to improve the efficiency of BN learning and inference, potentially unlocking new capabilities for probabilistic reasoning in complex systems. This work presents a theoretical framework and a conceptual outline for such an approach, laying the groundwork for future research and experimentation. The effectiveness of this approach is predicated on the ability to translate the inherent parallelism of quantum algorithms into an efficient optimization strategy for Bayesian Networks.
•Aug 28, 2026•0 citations