| Document and Entity Information | Jan. 27, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001205922 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 27, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Vaccinex, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-38624 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 16-1603202 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1895 Mount Hope Avenue |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Rochester |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 14620 |
| City Area Code | (585) |
| Local Phone Number | 271-2700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share |
| Trading Symbol | VCNX |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | true |
| Entity Ex Transition Period | false |
