Hilbert space methods for approximating multi-output latent variable Gaussian processes

Abstract

Gaussian processes are a powerful class of non-linear models, but have limited applicability for larger datasets due to their high computational complexity. In such cases, approximate methods are required, for example, the recently developed class of Hilbert space Gaussian processes. They have been shown to significantly reduce computation time while retaining most of the favorable properties of exact Gaussian processes. However, Hilbert space approximations have so far only been developed for uni-dimensional outputs and manifest (known) inputs. Thus, we generalize Hilbert space methods to multi-output and latent input settings. Through extensive simulations, we show that the developed approximate Gaussian processes are indeed not only faster, but also provide similar or even better uncertainty calibration and accuracy of latent variable estimates compared to exact Gaussian processes. While not necessarily faster than alternative Gaussian process approximations, our new models provide better calibration and estimation accuracy, thus striking an excellent balance between trustworthiness and speed. We additionally illustrate our methods on a real-world case study from single cell biology.