| Cover | Nov. 10, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 10, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | YIELD10 BIOSCIENCE, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-33133 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-3158289 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 19 Presidential Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Woburn |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01801 |
| City Area Code | 617 |
| Local Phone Number | 583-1700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock |
| Trading Symbol | YTEN |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001121702 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
