The division was founded in 2017 through the merger of three long-standing professional groups: Dielectric Solids (DF), Microprobes (MI), and Crystallography (KR). This joinded division "Crystalline Solids and their Microstructure" (KFM) reflected the strong scientific links between these communities and created a unified platform for addressing future challenges in materials research. In 2025, the division adopted the new name Functional Materials, acknowledging the evolution of the field and the broadening research focus within the division. While historical expertise in crystallography, dielectric materials, and microprobe techniques continues to form an important foundation, today’s scientific activities increasingly revolve around the physical mechanisms of advanced functional materials.

FM is part of the Condensed Matter Section (SKM) of the DPG. The division contributes annually to the SKM Spring Meeting and supports smaller workshops, symposia, and topical meetings proposed by its members.