Net Loss per Share - Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Numerator:
Net loss attributable to Intrexon	$ (44,137)	$ (28,982)	$ (49,064)	$ (64,429)	$ (32,714)	$ (38,213)	$ (40,663)	$ 27,097	$ (186,612)	$ (84,493)	$ (81,822)
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted									117,983,836	111,066,352	99,170,653
Net loss attributable to Intrexon per share, basic and diluted	$ (0.37)	$ (0.24)	$ (0.42)	$ (0.55)					$ (1.58)	$ (0.76)	$ (0.83)