Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited) [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Emergent BioSolutions Inc.	$ 13,491	$ 6,617	$ 15,913	$ 7,417
Foreign currency translations, net of tax	11	(652)	627	(588)
Comprehensive income	$ 13,502	$ 5,965	$ 16,540	$ 6,829