Innovative new materials and devices will underpin the solution to many challenges facing society, from detecting and treating disease, to implementing large-scale renewable energy sources, to securing food and fresh water for all. In order to address these challenges, the Institute for Functional Materials & Devices (I-FMD) brings together Lehigh’s interdisciplinary expertise in the synthesis, fabrication, processing, and characterization of engineered materials including semiconductors, metals, ceramics, composites, polymers and other soft materials. These materials are integrated into sensors, actuators, and other devices that have critical functionality across mechanical, electronic, photonic, and chemical domains. I-FMD will identify and address innovative solutions to societal grand challenges through interdisciplinary teams focused around material and device functionalities. The Institute also coordinates nanofabrication and materials-characterization facilities that enable cutting-edge research as well as deeper engagement with university and industry partners.