Net Loss per Share - Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Numerator:
Net loss attributable to Intrexon	$ (39,689)	$ (28,982)	$ (89,752)	$ (142,475)
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted (in shares)	120,518,885	118,346,782	119,741,291	117,785,160
Net loss attributable to Intrexon per share, basic and diluted (in usd per share)	$ (0.33)	$ (0.24)	$ (0.75)	$ (1.21)