Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (41,494)	$ (52,935)	$ (15,690)	$ (49,686)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments	(8)	22	19	91
Foreign currency translation adjustments	848	(108)	(2,272)	(67)
Comprehensive loss	(40,654)	(53,021)	(17,943)	(49,662)
Comprehensive loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests	843	915	2,096	1,763
Comprehensive loss attributable to Intrexon	$ (39,811)	$ (52,106)	$ (15,847)	$ (47,899)