Error mitigation in quantum metrology via zero noise extrapolation

Abstract: We consider Zero Noise Extrapolation (ZNE) as an error mitigation strategy in quantum metrology. It is shown that noise expansion can be systematically performed over sufficiently short time scales for general Markovian noise models described by the time homogeneous Lindblad master equation. This suggests that ZNE can be an effective, resource efficient error mitigation alternative when strategies employing full quantum error correcting codes are unavailable. The ZNE method is then applied quantum phase estimation in a Mach-Zehnder interferometer subject to photon losses. Numerical simulations show a significant recovery of measurement sensitivity by employing first order ZNE corrections, which can be further improved upon using higher order corrections at the cost of additional measurements.