Inductors could be avoided by proper system planning. The main parts in a radio ( let us take receiver) is at the input matching and LNA which is normally the first element in the RX. If one does not need good noise performance, with a resistance matching, inductors at the input could be avoided. Morover those inductors could be placed external as the noise performance of such inductors are very low compared to the integrated ones. Next usage could be as the load of LNA. This will give narrow band performance. High quality factor means high gain, narrow band and better noise performance. If the load inductors are avoided, and resistors are used, then those performances will suffer. Mixers if you are using Gilbert cells or active mixers as it is called, although need buffers for LO, but the buffers strength is not very demanding due to the inherent active architecture of the mixer. I have experience with LNAs and RX and TX and I am glad to contribute and collaborate !

I've started working on a gilbert cell layout. Much of the time has been spent learning magic. If you're interested in working on some LNA designs that would be great.

Good to know. Were you able to simulate gilbert cell yet ? I believe we are still waiting for the spice models isnt?

yea, I've just been doing the magic design to get a handle on that aspect. I'm new to vlsi design but I'm a HAM and do a lot of radio design, etc. at the pcb level...jsut learning to translate that knowledge to an IC