Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net Loss per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Net Loss per Share Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Goodwill Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Ending balance Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Oragenics, Inc. Oragenics [Member] Oragenics, Inc. Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Fair value of financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Company's ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Unrealized depreciation in fair value of equity securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation Costs Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stock Option Activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investments in Joint Ventures Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Share-Based Payments Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory [Axis] Inventory [Axis] Inventory [Domain] Inventory [Domain] Supplies, embryos and other production materials Supplies, Embryos And Other Production Materials [Member] Supplies, Embryos And Other Production Materials [Member] Work in process Work In Process [Member] Work In Process [Member] Livestock Livestock [Member] Livestock [Member] Feed Feed [Member] Feed [Member] Inventory [Line Items] Inventory [Line Items] Inventory Inventory, Gross Investment in Preferred Stock [Abstract] Investment in Preferred Stock [Abstract] Schedule of Changes in Level 3 Investments Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted cash included in other assets Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Summarized Financial Information for the Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Intrexon T1D Partners, LLC Intrexon T1D Partners, LLC [Member] Intrexon T1D Partners, LLC [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Accrued Liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Upfront Upfront [Member] Upfront consideration for collaboration Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Upfront and Milestone Payments Upfront And Milestone Payments [Member] Upfront and milestone payments received as collaboration for the entity's collaborations Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Investors Investor [Member] Collaborative arrangement consideration received, value Collaborative Arrangement Consideration Received Value Value of consideration received by the entity for collaboration Membership interest Capital contributions Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture Maximum additional capital contribution committed Joint Venture Additional Capital Contributions Committed Amount of additional capital contributions to the joint venture for which the entity is committed, maximum. Additional capital contributions committed, remaining commitment Joint Venture Additional Capital Contributions Committed, Remaining Commitment Remaining amount of additional capital contributions to the joint venture for which the entity is committed. Total number of seats on the joint venture's governing board Number of Seats on Governing Board Number of seats on the governing board. Total number of seats on the joint venture's governing board, internally selected Number of Seats on Governing Board, Internally Selected The number of seats on the governing board selected internally. Total number of seats on the joint venture's governing board, externally selected Number of Seats on Governing Board, Externally Selected The number of seats on the governing board, externally selected. Investment Equity Method Investments Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Licensing and patent infringement suit Licensing And Patent Infringement Suit [Member] Licensing And Patent Infringement Suit [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] XY, LLC XY, LLC [Member] XY, LLC [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Damages awarded to Trans Ova Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded from Other Party Damages awarded against Trans Ova Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded to Other Party Cumulative payments for royalties and licenses Payments for Royalties Royalty payments not yet deposited Royalty Payments Undeposited The amount of cash paid for royalties that have not been deposited as of the reporting date. Litigation settlement expense Litigation Settlement, Expense Claims dismissed Loss Contingency, Claims Dismissed, Number Total claims Loss Contingencies, Total Claims, Number Total number of claims. Claims pending resolution Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Summary of Amortized Cost, Gross Unrealized Gains and Losses, and Fair Value of Short-term Investments Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Maximum risk of loss related to the identified VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Intrexon Energy Partners II, LLC Intrexon Energy Partners II, LLC [Member] Intrexon Energy Partners II, LLC [Member] All Investors All Investors [Member] All Investors of Entity [Member] Investments In Affiliates Investments In Affiliates [Member] Investments In Affiliates [Member] Intrexon Energy Partners, LLC Intrexon Energy Partners [Member] Intrexon Energy Partners, LLC Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Summary of Placement in the Fair Value Hierarchy of Financial Assets that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Collaboration and licensing revenues, including $13,148 and $24,558 from related parties during the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and $29,788 and $53,445 during the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively Collaboration And Licensing Revenue Revenue from contractual agreements with collaborators whereby the collaborators obtain exclusive access to the entity's proprietary technologies for use in the research, development and commercialization of products and/or treatments in a contractually specified field of use as well as revenue earned during the period relating to consideration received from another party for the right to use, but not own, certain of the entity's intangible assets. Includes revenue recognized from upfront payments received upon consummation of the agreement, reimbursements for costs incurred by the entity for research and development efforts, and milestone payments received upon achievement of specified development, regulatory and commercial activities as defined in the collaboration and licensing agreements. Product revenues Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Service revenues Sales Revenue, Services, Net Other revenues Other Revenue, Net Total revenues Revenues Operating Expenses Operating Expenses [Abstract] Cost of products Cost of Goods Sold Cost of services Cost of Services Research and development Research and Development Expense Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Operating loss Operating Income (Loss) Other Income (Expense), Net Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Unrealized and realized appreciation (depreciation) in fair value of equity securities and preferred stock, net Equity Securities and Preferred Stock, Unrealized and Realized Appreciation (Depreciation) The amounts of gains and losses from fair value changes and disposition of equity securities and preferred stock included in earnings. Interest expense Interest Expense Interest and dividend income Investment Income, Nonoperating Other income (expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other income (expense), net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Equity in net loss of affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Loss before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net loss Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss attributable to Intrexon Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net loss attributable to Intrexon per share, basic and diluted (in usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Schedule of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Options Equity Option [Member] Restricted stock units Deferred Compensation, Share-based Payments [Member] Warrants Warrant [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of net loss per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] U.S. government debt securities US Government Debt Securities [Member] Certificates of deposit Certificates of Deposit [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Aggregate Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities S & I Ophthalmic, LLC S I Ophthalmic [Member] S & I Ophthalmic, LLC Return of investment upon dissolution of affiliate Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] AquaBounty Technologies, Inc. Aqua Bounty [Member] Aqua Bounty Technologies, Inc. Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Net proceeds from public financing Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Purchase of additional equity of majority-owned subsidiary Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Parent ownership interest Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent EnviroFlight, LLC EnviroFlight, LLC [Member] EnviroFlight, LLC [Member] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of products Cost Of Products [Member] Cost Of Products [Member] Cost of services Cost Of Services [Member] Cost Of Services [Member] Research and development Research and Development Expense [Member] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items] Stock-based compensation costs Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Short-term Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Investment [Axis] Investment [Axis] Investment [Domain] Investment [Domain] ZIOPHARM Oncology, Inc. Ziopharm [Member] ZIOPHARM Oncology, Inc. Fibrocell Science, Inc. Fibrocell [Member] Fibrocell Science, Inc. Other Contractual Payments Other Contractual Payments [Member] Other Contractual Payments [Member] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Preferred stock Preferred Stock [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Collaborative arrangement consideration received, number of preferred shares (in shares) Collaborative Arrangement Consideration Received Preferred Shares Number of shares of preferred stock of a collaborator received by the entity as consideration. Preferred shares, stated value (in usd per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Threshold consecutive trading days, conversion of shares Convertible Stock, Threshold Consecutive Trading Days Convertible Stock, Threshold Consecutive Trading Days Preferred shares, conversion calculation, divisor (in usd per share) Preferred Stock Conversion Rate Divisor Divisor of calculation used to convert preferred shares into common stock. Preferred shares, dividend rate (in usd per share) Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Per-Dollar-Amount Preferred shares, dividend rate, for unconverted shares after conversion event (in usd per share) Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Per-Dollar-Amount, Unconverted Shares The amount per share used to calculate dividend payments on preferred stock for unconverted shares after a conversion event. Dividend income, number of preferred shares received (in shares) Preferred Stock Dividends, Shares Noncash dividend income Noncash Dividend Income Amount of dividend income included in net income that results in no cash flow. Purchases of preferred stock and warrants Payments to Acquire Other Investments Convertible preferred shares issued (in shares) Convertible Preferred Shares, Shares Issued Total number of convertible preferred shares issued to shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of convertible preferred shares authorized. Number of common shares into which warrants are convertible (in shares) Warrants, Number Of Common Shares Into Which Warrants Can Be Converted The number of common shares into which warrants can be converted. Reverse stock split ratio Stockholders' Equity, Reverse Stock Split Reverse stock split (percentage) Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Convertible preferred shares, dividend rate Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Receivables converted to preferred stock Asset Conversion, Original Asset, Amount The amount of the original asset being converted in a noncash transaction. Preferred shares, initial dividend rate Preferred Stock, Initial Dividend Rate, Percentage The initial percentage rate used to calculate dividend payments on preferred stock applicable for an initial defined period. Preferred shares, subsequent dividend rate Preferred Stock, Subsequent Dividend Rate, Percentage The subsequent percentage rate used to calculate dividend payments on preferred stock applicable after the period for which the initial dividend rate has elapsed. Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Third Security, LLC Third Security [Member] Third Security, LLC Convertible Note and Warrants Convertible Note and Warrants [Member] Notes which are convertible into another security, usually common shares of the issuer with warrants attached. Other Assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Affiliate of Third Security, LLC Affiliates Of Third Security [Member] Affiliates of Third Security, LLC Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer [Member] Harvest Intrexon Enterprise Fund I, LP Harvest Intrexon Enterprise Fund I, LP [Member] Harvest Intrexon Enterprise Fund I, LP [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Series A preferred shares Series A Preferred Shares [Member] Series A redeemable preferred shares. Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Ownership interest Related Party Ownership Interest The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in a related party. Expense for services Professional and Contract Services Expense Initial term of services agreement Services Agreement Term Initial term of a services agreement. Shares issued as payment for services (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Issued for Services Shares issued as payment for services Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services Value of convertible preferred shares authorized for issuance Convertible Preferred Stock, Amount Authorized The maximum value of preferred shares permitted to be issued. Shares issued (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Sublease rental income Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue Other nonoperating income Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Noncancelable Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Lines of Credit and Long Term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Accumulated Deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Axis] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Axis] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Domain] Adjustments for Change in Accounting Principle [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 [Member] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Cumulative effect of adoption of ASC 606 (negated) Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Collaboration and licensing revenues Net loss Net loss attributable to Intrexon Current portion of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Long-term portion of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Business Combinations [Abstract] Revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Loss before income taxes Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest The pro forma income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of the period. Net loss Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest The pro forma consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest, as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of the period. Net loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest The pro forma net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of the period. Net loss attributable to Intrexon Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Investments In Preferred Stock Investment In Preferred Stock [Text Block] The entire disclosure for terms, amounts, nature of changes, rights and privileges, dividends, and other matters related to the company's investment in the preferred stock of another entity. Equity [Abstract] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized gain (loss) on investments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Comprehensive loss Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to Intrexon Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Line of Credit Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Trans Ova Genetics, LC Trans Ova Genetics Lc [Member] Trans Ova Genetics LC [Member] Exemplar Genetics, LLC Exemplar Genetics, LLC [Member] Exemplar Genetics, LLC [Member] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] First National Bank of Omaha First National Bank of Omaha [Member] First National Bank of Omaha [Member] American State Bank American State Bank [Member] American State Bank [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Line of credit facility, interest rate at period end Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Line of credit facility, outstanding balance Long-term Line of Credit Related Parties, Aggregated Related Parties, Aggregated [Member] Related Parties, Aggregated [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Unrealized loss on investments Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Loss on foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Total accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Intrexon shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Notes payable Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Royalty-based financing Royalty-based Financing [Member] Royalty-based Financing [Member] Other Other Long-Term Debt [Member] Other Long-Term Debt [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long term debt Long-term Debt Less current portion Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term debt, net of current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Intrexon Stock Option Plans Intrexon Stock Option Plan [Member] Stock option plans for Intrexon Corporation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Balances at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Balances at end of period (in shares) Exercisable at end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Balances at beginning of period (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Expired (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Balances at period end (in usd per share) Exercisable, weighted average exercise price, at end of period (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Balances, weighted average remaining contractual period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable at period end, weighted average remaining contractual period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five 2023 Long Term Debt, Maturities, Repayments Of Principal In Year Six Long Term Debt, Maturities, Repayments Of Principal In Year Six Thereafter Long Term Debt, Maturities, Repayments Of Principal After Year Six Long Term Debt, Maturities, Repayments Of Principal After Year Six Total Long Term Debt, Total, Excluding Royalty-based Financing Long Term Debt, Total, Excluding Royalty-based Financing Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Underwriting discounts and commissions Expense Related to Distribution or Servicing and Underwriting Fees Capitalized offering expenses Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Stock Issued, Issuance Costs Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Inventory Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Schedule of Long Term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Maturities of Long Term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Organization Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] GenVec, Inc. GenVec, Inc. [Member] GenVec, Inc. [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Common shares Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Warrants Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Warrants Assumed Value of warrants assumed in a business acquisition. Contingent consideration Business Combination, Liabilities Arising from Contingencies, Amount Recognized1 The amount, measured at acquisition-date fair value, of all liabilities assumed that arise from contingencies and were recognized by the entity. Total consideration transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Short-term investments Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Marketable Securities Trade receivables Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Other receivables Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Other Receivables Amount of other receivables acquired at the acquisition date. Prepaid expenses and other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Other noncurrent assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Total assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Accounts payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Accrued compensation and benefits Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Current Liabilities Accrued Compensation And Benefits Amount of accrued compensation and benefits assumed at the acquisition date. Other accrued expenses Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Other long-term liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Deferred tax liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Total liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Goodwill Total consideration Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Summarized Collaboration and Licensing Revenues Collaboration and Licensing Revenue [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of summarized revenues recognized for each significant collaboration and licensing agreement and aggregated nonsignificant collaborations and licensing agreements. Summary of Deferred Revenue Deferred Revenue, by Arrangement, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Summary of Deferred Revenue by Collaborator Deferred Revenue By Collaborator Disclosure Table Text Block [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the amounts that comprise the deferred revenue by collaborator as of the balance sheet date. Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Collaboration and licensing agreements Collaboration and licensing agreements [Member] Upfront fees, milestone payments, and prepaid research fees received for collaboration and licensing agreements. Products and Services Revenues Products and Services Revenues [Member] Revenue from products and services sales. Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Typical required notice period for voluntary termination of collaboration agreement Collaboration Agreement Termination Notice Period Notice period required for voluntary termination of collaboration. Typical payment terms Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Payment Terms Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table] Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table] Genopaver, LLC Genopaver, LLC [Member] Genopaver, LLC [Member] S & I Ophthalmic, LLC S I Opthalmic [Member] S & I Ophthalmic, LLC OvaXon, LLC Ova Xon [Member] OvaXon, LLC Intrexon Energy Partners, LLC Persea Bio, LLC Persea Bio, LLC [Member] Persea Bio, LLC Ares Trading S.A. Ares Trading S.A. [Member] Ares Trading S.A., a subsidiary of Merck Serono S.A. [Member] Intrexon Energy Partners II, LLC Harvest start-up entities Harvest Start-Up Entities, Aggregated [Member] Harvest Start-Up Entities, Aggregated [Member] Other Other Collaborations [Member] Aggregate of other collaborations not separately disclosed Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items] Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items] Schedule of Inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Loss on disposal of long-lived assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Unrealized and realized (appreciation) depreciation on equity securities and preferred stock, net Equity Securities and Preferred Stock, Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) The amounts of gains and losses from fair value changes of equity securities and preferred stock included in earnings. Noncash dividend income Amortization of premiums on investments Accretion (Amortization) of Discounts and Premiums, Investments Equity in net loss of affiliates Stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Shares issued as payment for services Shares Issued During Period Value Issued For Services Expense Expense recognized for consideration of services paid in the form of stock. Value of the stock issued includes, but is not limited to, services contributed by vendors and founders. Provision for bad debts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other noncash items Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Receivables: Increase (Decrease) in Receivables [Abstract] Trade Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Related parties Increase (Decrease) in Due from Related Parties, Current Other Increase (Decrease) in Other Receivables Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued compensation and benefits Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Other accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Related party payables Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties, Current Other long-term liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities Net cash used in operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Purchases of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Maturities of investments Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Available-for-sale Securities Purchases of preferred stock and warrants Proceeds from sales of equity securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Other Investments Cash acquired in business combination Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Investments in affiliates Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Cash paid in asset acquisition Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets Purchases of property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Issuance of note receivable Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable Proceeds from repayment of notes receivable Proceeds from Collection of Notes Receivable Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Proceeds from issuance of shares and warrants in public offerings, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock and Warrants, Net The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity (in exchange for shares of common stock) and from issuance of rights to purchase common shares at a predetermined price (usually issued together with corporate debt), net of capitalized issuance costs. Acquisitions of noncontrolling interests Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Advances from lines of credit Proceeds from Lines of Credit Repayments of advances from lines of credit Repayments of Lines of Credit Proceeds from long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payments of deferred consideration for acquisition Payments Of Deferred Consideration Cash outflows representing payments for deferred consideration from a business combination. Proceeds from stock option and warrant exercises Proceeds from Stock Options and Warrants Exercised The cash inflow associated with the amount received (i) from exercise of stock options granted under share-based compensation arrangement and (ii) from holders exercising their stock warrants. Payment of issuance costs Payment of Financing and Stock Issuance Costs Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Beginning of period End of period Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid during the period for interest Interest Paid Cash paid during the period for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Significant noncash financing and investing activities Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Stock and warrants issued in business combination Stock And Warrants Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Value of stock and warrants issued pursuant to acquisitions during the period. Stock issued to acquire noncontrolling interests Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisition Of Noncontrolling Interests Value of stock issued to acquire noncontrolling interests during the period. Noncash dividend to shareholders Noncash Dividends To Shareholders Value of noncash dividend to shareholders Purchases of property and equipment included in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Purchases of equipment financed through debt Liabilities Assumed Issuance costs included in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Issuance Costs Incurred But Not Yet Paid Future cash outflow to pay for debt and/or equity issuance costs that have occurred. Land and land improvements Land and Land Improvements Buildings and building improvements Buildings and Improvements, Gross Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures, Gross Equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Leasehold improvements Leasehold Improvements, Gross Breeding stock Breeding and Production Animals, Gross Amount before accumulated depreciation of animals maintained to create offspring or to produce goods to be sold for profit. Computer hardware and software Computer Hardware and Software Amount before accumulated depreciation and amortization of computer hardware and purchased software. Trees Trees Amount before accumulated depreciation of producing trees and trees in process. Construction and other assets in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Domestic Tax Authority Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Foreign Tax Authority Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Taxable income (loss) Taxable Income Loss Taxable income (loss) Current income tax expense (benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax benefit Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Estimated current tax benefit upon enactment of Tax Act Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Research Estimated tax benefit upon enactment of Tax Act Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Change in deferred tax assets resulting from enactment of Tax Act Deferred Tax Asset, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Change in Tax Rate, Amount Change in deferred tax asset due to change in tax rate brought about by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Estimated tax benefit due to changes in deferred tax liabilities upon enactment of Tax Act Deferred Tax Liability, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Change in Tax Rate, Amount Change in deferred tax liability due to change in tax rate brought about by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Provisional current tax benefit related to the expected refundability of accumulated corporate alternative minimum tax credits Estimated Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Refundable Accumulated Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax Credits Provisional estimated income tax expense (benefit) due to expected refundability of accumulated corporate alternative minimum tax credits. Provisional transition tax amount Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Transition Tax Amount Provisionally estimated transition tax exposure as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Historical net loss per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Numerator: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Denominator: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted (in shares) Mergers and Acquisitions [Abstract] Mergers and Acquisitions [Abstract] Fair Value of Consideration Transferred Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Condensed Pro forma Financial Information Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Outstanding contractual purchase commitments Long-term Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed Minimum amount to be expended to satisfy the terms of arrangements in which the entity has agreed to expend funds to procure goods or services under long-term purchase commitments. Intrexon Stock Option Plan - 2008 Plan Intrexon Stock Option Plan 2008 Plan [Member] Intrexon Stock Option Plan - 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Intrexon Stock Option Plan - 2013 Plan Intrexon Stock Option Plan 2013 Plan [Member] Intrexon Stock Option Plan - 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan AquaBounty Stock Option Plan - 2006 Plan Aqua Bounty 2006 Stock Option Plan [Member] AquaBounty Technologies, Inc. 2006 Equity Incentive Plan Aqua Bounty Stock Option Plans Aqua Bounty Stock Option Plans [Member] Aqua Bounty Technologies, Inc. Equity Incentive Plans Remaining shares available to grant (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Options outstanding (in shares) Number of shares authorized for issuance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized RSUs outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number RSUs granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted average grant date fair value of RSUs granted (in usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Monthly compensation, in the form of equity Compensation Arrangement With Individual, Allocated Share-Based Compensation Expense, Monthly Expense Amount of monthly expense recognized from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, unit, stock options or other equity instruments), awarded to key employees or individuals. Lock-up period Lockup Period On Restricted Stock Unit Shares Period of time during which issued shares are subject to a lock-up on resale. Initial term of compensation arrangement Compensation Arrangement Initial Term Initial term of a compensation arrangement. Options exercisable (in shares) Weighted average exercise price of option (in usd per share) Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table] Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table] Prepaid product and service revenues Prepaid Product And Service Revenues [Member] Prepaid Product And Service Revenues [Member] Other Deferred Revenue Other [Member] Other deferred revenue Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items] Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items] Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Short-term investments Short-term Investments Equity securities Other Marketable Securities, Current Receivables Receivables, Net, Current [Abstract] Trade, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Related parties, net Due from Related Parties, Current Other Accounts and Other Receivables, Net, Current Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Equity securities, noncurrent Other Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Investments in preferred stock Investments In Preferred Stock, Noncurrent Investments in preferred stock for which the entity has elected the fair value option, intended to be held longer than one year from the balance sheet date of the normal operating cycle, if longer. Property, plant and equipment, net Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Investments in affiliates Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Total Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Other accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Deferred revenue, including $17,804 and $29,155 from related parties as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively Lines of credit Line of Credit, Current Current portion of long-term debt Related party payables Due to Related Parties, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred revenue, net of current portion, including $130,447 and $157,628 from related parties as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively Deferred tax liabilities, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 16) Commitments and Contingencies Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common stock, no par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017; 129,421,788 and 122,087,040 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively Common Stock, Value, Outstanding Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Total Intrexon shareholders' equity Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and total equity Liabilities and Equity Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring Changes in fair value of Level 3 liabilities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Notes payable to banks Notes Payable to Banks [Member] Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency [Member] Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency [Member] Long term debt Debt instrument, periodic payment Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment Amount available under the grant for research and development Amount Available Under Financial Grant For Research And Development Amount available under research and development grant Claims period Government Award, Claim Period Length of period during which amounts can be claimed under research and development grant Royalty on products, percentage Rate Of Royalty Agreed To Be Paid Percentage of royalty on products commercialized under research and development grant Amount claimed Amount Claimed Under Financial Grant Amount claimed under research and development grant to date Long term debt, fair value at date of business combination Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Accreted difference between face value of amount drawn and acquisition date fair value Accreted Difference Between Face Value Of Amount Drawn And Acquisition Date Fair Value Accreted Difference Between Face Value Of Amount Drawn And Acquisition Date Fair Value Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Dividend income from investments in preferred stock Net unrealized depreciation in the fair value of the investments in preferred stock Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Ending balance Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Convertible senior notes Convertible Debt Convertible senior notes, interest rate, stated percentage Convertible senior notes, number of shares per principal amount into which debt converts (in shares) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Shares The number of common shares that the holder of the debt instrument would receive if the debt was converted. Convertible senior notes, principal amount of conversion feature Debt Instrument, Convertible, Principal Amount The principal amount in USD of the convertible debt's conversion feature. Convertible senior notes, conversion price per common share Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Convertible senior notes, repurchase feature, percent of principal issuer is required to repay Debt Instrument, Convertible, Terms, Repurchase Percent, Maximum Percentage of principal amount of debt the issuer is required to repay if certain events, as outlined in the debt agreement, occur. Borrowed shares, number issued (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other Borrowed shares, public offering price per share Shares Issued, Price Per Share Collaboration and Licensing Revenue Collaborative Arrangement Disclosure [Text Block] Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Other Other Financial Assets [Member] Other Financial Assets [Member] Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Total Intrexon Shareholders' Equity Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balances (in shares) Balances Cumulative effect of adoption of ASC 606 Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption1 Amount after tax of increase (decrease) to equity or (increase) decrease to net assets, resulting from the cumulative effect adjustment of a new accounting principle applied in the period of adoption. Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Exercises of stock options and warrants (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Stock Options and Warrants Exercised Number of new stock issued during the period as a result of exercises of stock options and warrants. Exercises of stock options and warrants Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options and Warrants Exercised Value of stock issued as a result of the exercise of stock options and warrants. Shares and warrants issued in public offerings, net of issuance costs (in shares) Shares and warrants issued in public offerings, net of issuance costs Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Adjustments for noncontrolling interests Adjustments for noncontrolling interests Increase in noncontrolling interest balance because of current period activity, including business combinations and subsidiary equity issuances. Net loss Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Balances (in shares) Balances Goodwill accumulated impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due In Six Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due In Six Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Percentage of outstanding common stock acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business combination, consideration paid, shares issued Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Percent of collaboration payments Collaboration Arrangement, Percent Of Collaboration Payments Percent of collaboration payments received pursuant to a collaboration agreement for upfront fees, milestones and royalties which will be paid to another party. Period subsequent to acquisition during which a portion of collaboration payments received will be paid to former stockholders of acquired entity Business Combination, Period Subsequent to Acquisition During Which A Portion of Collaboration Payments Received Will Be Paid to Former Stockholders of Acquired Entity The period subsequent to the acquisition during which a portion of collaboration payments received from previously existing collaborations will be paid to former stockholders of the acquired entity. Expected useful life of intangible asset Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Business combination, acquisition related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Intrexon T1D Partners, LLC Average remaining performance period (in years) Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Average Period Average period in which remaining performance obligations are expected to be recognized as revenue, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Deferred revenue Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments [Member] Current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets Noncurrent assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Current liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities Net assets Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Assets Liabilities Net Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Assets Liabilities Net Revenues Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Operating expenses Other, net Net loss Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Patents, developed technologies and know-how Intellectual Property [Member] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Trademarks Trademarks [Member] In-process research and development In Process Research and Development [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Brazilian R&D facility closure Facility Closing [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Loss on disposal of property, plant, and equipment Depreciation expense Depreciation Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Foreign Countries Non-US [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of segments Number of Operating Segments Revenues