Abstract: Quantum computers offer the promise of solving crucially important yet intractable problems. In the near term, where resources on digital quantum computers are likely to be very limited, it is essential to determine (1) what resources are actually required during different stages of a quantum computation of a realistic theory and (2) how we can pragmatically improve methodologies to significantly reduce the resources needed at each stage.

In a step toward this, we will explore how many qubits are actually needed to simulate a (3 + 1)D SU(2) gauge theory, then discuss tangible and impactful future directions that can help quantum computers.