Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Numerator
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	$ (5,484)	$ 5,822	$ 22,185	$ 8,106
Net loss (income) from discontinued operations	(23)	(24)	(49)	37
Net income (loss) attributed to Verenium Corporation	$ (5,507)	$ 5,798	$ 22,136	$ 8,143
Denominator
Weighted average shares outstanding during the period	12,765	12,612	12,664	12,612
Less: Weighted average unvested restricted shares outstanding	0	(5)	0	(5)
Weighted average shares used in computing basic net income (loss) per share	12,765	12,607	12,664	12,607
Net income (loss) per share, basic:
Continuing operations	$ (0.43)	$ 0.46	$ 1.75	$ 0.64
Discontinued operations	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 0.00
Attributed to Verenium Corporation	$ (0.43)	$ 0.46	$ 1.75	$ 0.65