Build the silicon that powers the next era of human-computer interaction | Director of Analog Design - Wearable SoCs

🚀 About Ixana
Ixana is a Purdue University spinoff pioneering brain-inspired wearable computing. We've developed Wi-R, a patented communication tech that's 100x more energy-efficient than Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Join our 60-person team building the next era of real-time, AI-powered human-computer interaction.

💡 The Wi-R Revolution
Wi-R is our patented non-radiative near-field communication technology that creates secure "wire-like wireless" experiences through small E-field bubbles around your body. This breakthrough enables unprecedented energy efficiency at sub-0.1 nanojoules per bit, making long-term wearable and implantable devices finally practical.

See Wi-R in action: Visit ixana.ai for demos of high-speed data streaming through skin contact: https://vimeo.com/ixana/pairing-contact-transfer

🎯 The Role: Director of IC Design
Own the next-generation Wi-R chips from spec to tapeout (and to mass production, if that's what you want to do)

🛠What You’ll Own

• Architect next-generation Wi-R SoCs, integrating analog/RF front-end, ultra-low-power digital blocks, and sensor interfaces

• Build and lead the IC design team (digital, analog, mixed-signal) across West Lafayette and remote sites

• Own chip tape-outs end to end: RTL-to-GDS, IP integration, ESD, packaging co-design, and silicon validation

• Define and enforce methodologies for IP reuse, verification, and simulation

• Partner with product, firmware, and hardware teams to co-optimize system design

• Be the technical face of silicon for investors, partners, and customers

✅ What we are looking for

• 15+ years experience in ASIC or SoC design, with at least 3 successful tape-outs in mixed-signal or RF-heavy products

• Proven success leading teams through spec → tape-out → bring-up → production

• Deep experience in low-power wireless SoCs, including Bluetooth, NFC, UWB, or proprietary PHYs

• Proficiency in Cadence toolchains, floorplanning, DFT, timing closure, and analog/digital integration

• Bonus: Prior work in wearable, bioelectronics, or medical devices

💵 Compensation

• Base salary $175 000 – $225 000 USD ‑ equivalent to ≈ $330k – $430k Bay‑Area purchasing power. 3br houses in Lafayette, IN area are $350k-450K. Top 20 school district in the country.

• 10-50% cash bonus

• Meaningful early‑stage equity

• Relocation bonus, partner job‑search help

📊 All figures based on BestPlaces July 2025 cost-of-living indices. West Lafayette index = 83.5. These reflect real-world purchasing power, not just cash numbers.

🌟 Benefits Package:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• 5 days a week in office. Flexible work arrangements and generous PTO

• Professional development opportunities and conference attendance

• Patent development and technology leadership opportunities

• Immigration and work visa support as long as you are already in US on a work permit

• Full visa sponsorship (STEM‑OPT transfer / H‑1B / TN / future green card)

🌟 Why Join Us

• Work on deep tech that matters

• Collaborate with world-class experts and industry leaders

• Own your work end-to-end and see real impact

• Enjoy a culture of speed, rigor, and respect

• Competitive perks, equity, and global exposure

📍 Location

West Lafayette, IN – On-site at our R&D Center

Ixana is an equal opportunity employer committed to advancing human-computer interfaces through innovative low-power electronics innovation.