Cerevel Therapeutics 10-K 26 Nov 13 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Nov. 15, 2013	Feb. 28, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Aug-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Trading Symbol	'CERE	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'CERES, INC.	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000767884	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--08-31	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Non-accelerated Filer	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	25,224,269	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$49,136,976

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$8,881	$21,069
Marketable securities	21,630	33,565
Prepaid expenses	791	1,050
Accounts receivable	957	765
Inventories	20	841
Other current assets	157	278
Total current assets	32,436	57,568
Property and equipment, net	4,633	5,756
Marketable securities	'	5,720
Other assets	109	203
Total long-term assets	4,742	11,679
Total assets	37,178	69,247
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	3,825	5,476
Deferred revenue	'	701
Deferred rent	18	31
Current portion of long-term debt	154	134
Total current liabilities	3,997	6,342
Deferred rent	93	88
Long-term debt, net of current portion	82	256
Total liabilities	4,172	6,686
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Common Stock, $0.01 par value; 490,000,000 shares authorized; 24,897,199 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2013; 24,549,029 shares issued and outstanding at August 31, 2012.	248	245
Additional paid-in capital	308,038	304,672
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-696	-283
Accumulated deficit	-274,584	-242,073
Total stockholders' equity	33,006	62,561
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$37,178	$69,247

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]	'	'
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	490,000,000	490,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	24,897,199	24,549,029
Common Stock, shares outstanding	24,897,199	24,549,029

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Revenues:	'	'	'
Product sales	$462	$432	$116
Collaborative research and government grants	4,781	4,939	6,500
Total revenues	5,243	5,371	6,616
Cost and operating expenses:	'	'	'
Cost of product sales	6,245	2,384	2,492
Research and development	16,401	19,155	19,014
Selling, general and administrative	15,187	12,634	10,008
Total cost and operating expenses	37,833	34,173	31,514
Loss from operations	-32,590	-28,802	-24,898
Interest expense	-46	-560	-456
Interest income	126	39	7
Other expense	'	-84	-11,020
Loss before income taxes	-32,510	-29,407	-36,367
Income tax (expense) benefit	-1	-3	31
Net Loss	($32,511)	($29,410)	($36,336)
Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to common stockholders	($1.31)	($2.18)	($18.34)
Weighted average outstanding common shares used for net loss per share attributable to common stockholders:	'	'	'
Basic and diluted	24,796,030	13,488,336	1,981,627

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]	'	'	'
Net loss	($32,511)	($29,410)	($36,336)
Other comprehensive income (loss):	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-395	-262	-27
Net unrealized (loss) gain on marketable securities	-18	6	'
Total comprehensive loss	($32,924)	($29,666)	($36,363)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (USD $)

Total

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Common Stock [Member]

Common Stock [Member]

Common Stock [Member]

Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]

Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]

Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]

Accumulated Deficit [Member]

Accumulated Deficit [Member]

Accumulated Deficit [Member]

In Thousands, except Share data

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Balance at Aug. 31, 2010

($170,829)

'

'

$19

'

'

$5,479

'

'

'

'

'

($176,327)

'

'

Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2010

'

'

'

1,948,042

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercise of common stock options (in shares)

'

'

'

66,126

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercise of common stock options

164

'

'

1

'

'

163

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock compensation expense

2,710

'

'

'

'

'

2,710

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net loss

-36,336

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-36,336

'

'

Foreign currency translation adjustment

-27

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-27

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Aug. 31, 2011

-204,318

'

'

20

'

'

8,352

'

'

-27

'

'

-212,663

'

'

Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2011

'

'

'

2,014,168

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercise of common stock options (in shares)

298,282

'

'

298,282

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercise of common stock options

538

'

'

3

'

'

535

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock issued upon IPO, net of offering costs (in shares)

'

'

'

5,750,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock issued upon IPO, net of offering costs

65,158

'

'

58

'

'

65,100

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion of convertible stock upon IPO (in shares)

'

'

'

'

15,353,221

1,098,575

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion of convertible stock upon IPO

'

197,502

14,282

'

153

11

'

197,349

14,271

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cancellation of common stock (in shares)

'

'

'

-5,817

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cancellation of common stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock issued (in shares)

'

'

'

45,100

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock issued

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock cancelled (in shares)

'

'

'

-4,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock cancelled

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion of liability classified warrants to equity classified warrants upon IPO

17,158

'

'

'

'

'

17,158

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock compensation expense

1,909

'

'

'

'

'

1,909

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Effect of reverse stock split

-2

'

'

'

'

'

-2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net loss

-29,410

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-29,410

'

'

Foreign currency translation adjustment

-262

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-262

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized gain on marketable securities

6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Aug. 31, 2012

62,561

'

'

245

'

'

304,672

'

'

-283

'

'

-242,073

'

'

Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2012

'

'

'

24,549,029

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercise of common stock options (in shares)

23,832

'

'

23,832

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Exercise of common stock options

56

'

'

'

'

'

56

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock issued (in shares)

'

'

'

348,375

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock issued

3

'

'

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock cancelled (in shares)

'

'

'

-24,037

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restricted stock cancelled

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock compensation expense

3,310

'

'

'

'

'

3,310

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net loss

-32,511

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-32,511

'

'

Foreign currency translation adjustment

-395

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-395

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized gain on marketable securities

-18

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-18

'

'

'

'

'

Balance at Aug. 31, 2013

$33,006

'

'

$248

'

'

$308,038

'

'

($696)

'

'

($274,584)

'

'

Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2013

'

'

'

24,897,199

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net loss	($32,511)	($29,410)	($36,336)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:	'	'	'
Change in fair value of common and preferred stock warrants and convertible notes	'	84	-818
Charge on issuance of convertible notes	'	'	2,205
Charge for modification of liability classified warrants	'	'	9,633
Impairment of assets, net of insurance proceeds	2	26	'
Net loss on disposal of assets	109	30	42
Depreciation	1,912	2,059	2,075
Amortization of premiums on marketable securities	572	'	'
Stock compensation	3,310	1,909	2,710
Other	130	'	'
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Prepaid expenses	337	-419	44
Accounts receivable	-195	527	-96
Inventories	679	-841	'
Deferred offering costs	'	2,775	-2,775
Other assets	26	59	-83
Accounts payables and accrued expenses	-1,517	-1,827	3,197
Deferred revenue	-701	-223	247
Deferred rent	-8	-61	-52
Net cash used in operating activities	-27,855	-25,312	-20,007
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Purchases of property and equipment	-892	-1,265	-548
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	'	'	112
Proceeds from insurance	'	1,000	'
Change in restricted cash and investments	'	3,000	'
Purchase of marketable securities (at cost)	-15,944	-39,278	'
Maturities of marketable securities	32,879	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	16,043	-36,543	-436
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Principal payments on debt	-240	-6,921	-2,263
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes	'	'	11,425
Proceeds from issuance of debt and preferred stock warrants	'	2,500	'
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	60	538	164
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon IPO, net of underwriters discounts and commission	'	65,158	'
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-180	61,275	9,326
Effect of foreign currency translation on cash	-196	-262	-27
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-12,188	-842	-11,144
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	21,069	21,911	33,055
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	8,881	21,069	21,911
Supplemental cash flow information:	'	'	'
Interest paid during the year	1	376	373
Income taxes paid during the year	1	3	1
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities:	'	'	'
Additions to property and equipment under capital leases	263	489	'
Acquisitions of assets under accounts payable & accrued expenses	'	330	'
Accrued deferred offering costs	'	'	1,965
Surrender of common stock applied to stock option exercise	'	90	'
Detail of IPO transactions;	'	'	'
Conversion of convertible notes to common stock	'	14,282	'
Conversion of convertible preferred stock to common stock	'	197,502	'
Conversion of liability classified warrants to equity classified warrants	'	17,158	'
Total non-cash IPO transactions	'	$228,942	'

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Description of Business
	Ceres, Inc. (Company) is an agricultural biotechnology company selling seeds to produce dedicated energy crops - renewable bioenergy feedstocks that can enable the large-scale replacement of petroleum and other fossil fuels. The Company uses a combination of advanced plant breeding and biotechnology to develop seed products.
	In January 2010, the Company incorporated a subsidiary, Ceres Sementes do Brasil Ltda. The Company's ownership in this subsidiary is 99.9% and the Company's Chief Executive Officer owns the remaining interest.
	On January 24, 2012, the Company filed an amended and restated certificate of incorporation which effected a 1 for 3 reverse stock split of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of common stock. The par value of the common stock was not adjusted as a result of the reverse stock split. All issued and outstanding shares of common stock and stock options and per share amounts contained in the Company's consolidated financial statements have been retroactively adjusted to reflect this reverse stock split for all periods presented.
	On February 27, 2012, the Company closed its initial public offering (IPO) of 5,750,000 shares of common stock (including 750,000 shares purchased by the underwriters upon the exercise of their option to purchase up to an additional 750,000 shares) at an offering price of $13.00 per share, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $65,158, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses. Upon closing of the IPO, all of the Company's outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock were automatically converted into 15,353,221 shares of common stock, all of the Company's outstanding convertible subordinated notes (Convertible Notes) were automatically converted into 1,098,575 shares of common stock and all of the Company's outstanding convertible preferred stock warrants were automatically converted into warrants to purchase a total of 20,511 shares of common stock.
	Liquidity
	The Company has incurred substantial net losses from operations since its inception, including net losses of $32,511, $29,410 and $36,336 for the years ended August 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. As of August 31, 2013 the Company had an accumulated deficit of $274,584.
	Management has taken certain actions subsequent to August 31, 2013 to extend the Company's available working capital. The Company expects to incur additional losses related to the continued development and expansion of its business, including research and development, seed production and operations, and sales and marketing. The Company plans to finance its operations for the next 12 to 15 months with cash and investments currently on hand, with cash inflows from collaboration and grant funding and from product sales. There is no assurance that the Company will achieve profitable operations, or if achieved, that profitable operations can be sustained on a continued basis.
	Management believes that the Company's cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities at August 31, 2013 are sufficient to fund operations for the next 12 months.
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and with the Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions. This affects the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the valuation of property and equipment, inventory, deferred tax assets, common stock, convertible preferred stock, stock options, warrant liabilities and convertible notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Cash Equivalents
	The Company considers all highly liquid investments, with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased, to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents totaled $8,881 and $16,769 at August 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Marketable Securities
	Marketable securities are classified as available for sale and are recorded at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, if any, net of taxes, reported as a component of shareholders' equity until realized or until a determination is made that an other-than-temporary decline in market value has occurred.
	In determining whether an other-than-temporary impairment exists for debt securities, management considers: (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and (3) the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. Management has determined that there has been no other-than-temporary impairment of its marketable securities.
	The cost of marketable securities sold is based upon the specific identification method and any realized gains or losses on the sale of investments are reflected as a component of interest income or expense. There were no sales of marketable securities during the years ended August 31, 2013 and 2012.
	The Company classifies marketable securities as current or non-current based upon whether such assets are reasonably expected to be realized in cash or sold or consumed during the normal operating cycle of the business.
	Financial Instruments
	The carrying value of financial instruments such as cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivables, accounts payable, and accrued expenses approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. At each period end, the fair value of the long-term debt approximated carrying value based on interest rates currently available to the Company.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated financial statements are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value. Hierarchical levels that are directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to the valuation of these assets or liabilities are as follows:
		•	Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company can access at the measurement date.
		•	Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
		•	Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
	The following tables present the Company's financial assets that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of August 31, 2013 and 2012 by level within the fair value hierarchy:
			August 31, 2013
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Financial Assets
	Money market funds		$	2,310		$	-		$	-		$	2,310
	Certificates of deposit - available for sale			-			4,555			-			4,555
	Commercial paper - available for sale			-			2,198			-			2,198
	Corporate bonds - available for sale			-			16,076			-			16,076
	Total		$	2,310		$	22,829		$	-		$	25,139
	All of the money market funds and $1,199 of the commercial paper are included in cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.
			August 31, 2012
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Financial Assets
	Money market funds		$	16,769		$	-		$	-		$	16,769
	Commercial paper - available for sale			-			10,187			-			10,187
	Corporate bonds - available for sale			-			29,098			-			29,098
	Total		$	16,769		$	39,285		$	-		$	56,054
	All of the money market funds are included in cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.
	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable represents amounts owed to the Company from product sales and collaborative research and government grants. The Company had no amounts reserved for doubtful accounts at August 31, 2013 and 2012 as the Company expected full collection of the accounts receivable balances.
	Customers representing greater than 10% of accounts receivable were as follows (in percentages):
			As of
			August 31,
	Customers		2013			2012
	Customer A			37.3			47.9
	Customer B			23.1			*
	Customer D			**			13.6
	Customer E			*			15.2
	Customer F			21.8			**
		*	Less than 10%
		**	No balance
	Customers representing greater than 10% of revenues were as follows (in percentages):
			Year Ended August 31,
	Customers		2013			2012			2011
	Customer A			21.2			24.7			20.5
Customer B			20.2			16.8			16.6
Customer C			**			*			20.9
Customer D			14.5			17.4			25.4
Customer F			22.5			14			*
	*	Less than 10%
	**	No revenue
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives or the remaining life of the lease. Depreciation periods for the Company's property and equipment are as follows:
Automobiles and trucks	3-5 years
Office, laboratory, farm and warehouse equipment and furniture	3-5 years
Leasehold improvements	3-10 years
Buildings	14-39 years
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. To the extent that an impairment indicator has occurred, recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. In fiscal years 2013 and 2012 there was an indicator that impairment has occurred. However, there was no impairment as the carrying amount of the property and equipment did not exceed the fair value of such assets.
On February 3, 2012, the Company's plant breeding and field research station located near College Station, Texas was damaged by a tornado. The impact was limited to structural damage to the building that houses office space and a small laboratory used to evaluate biomass samples and work space. A small greenhouse and tractor sheds, and some agricultural equipment were also damaged.
In fiscal year 2012, the Company impaired $1,026 in assets related to damage at the Texas facility and received insurance proceeds of $1,000 for repair costs. The remainder of the repairs, which totaled approximately $150, were completed by November 30, 2012. These remaining repairs were also covered by insurance, subject to the Company's deductible.
Common and Convertible Preferred Stock Warrant Liabilities
Prior to the closing of the IPO, the Company determined that common stock warrants issued to certain holders of convertible preferred stock were not considered indexed to the Company's common stock and therefore required liability classification. In addition, the Company accounted for its warrants to purchase shares of the Company's convertible preferred stock that were contingently redeemable as liabilities at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. These common and convertible preferred stock warrants were subject to re-measurement at each balance sheet date and the changes in fair value, if any, were recognized as other (expense) income.
Upon the closing of the IPO, certain common and convertible preferred stock warrants, previously classified as liabilities were revalued and reclassified to additional paid-in capital as they no longer met the requirements for liability classification given the automatic conversion of the convertible preferred stock to common stock upon consummation of the IPO.
Convertible Preferred Stock
In connection with the Company's decision to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the IPO, the Company adopted the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 480-10-S99-3A, Classification and Measurement of Redeemable Securities.
The convertible preferred stock was not redeemable by the Company or at the option of the preferred stockholders. The holders of the Company's outstanding convertible preferred stock, voting or consenting together as a separate class, controlled the vote of the Company's stockholders. As a result, the holders of all series of the Company's convertible preferred stock could vote to approve a change in control under circumstances that would trigger a deemed liquidation under the Company's certificate of incorporation in effect prior to the IPO. As redemption of the convertible preferred stock through a deemed liquidation was outside the control of the Company, all shares of convertible preferred stock were classified as temporary equity rather than as a component of stockholders' equity in the Company's consolidated balance sheets. The carrying value of convertible preferred stock was recorded at its fair value at the date of issue. As discussed in Note (1), all of the outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock were automatically converted into shares of common stock upon the closing of the IPO.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation arrangements with employees using a fair value method under ASC Topic 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation, which requires the recognition of compensation expense for costs related to all stock-based payments including stock options and restricted stock awards.
The fair value method requires the Company to estimate the fair value of stock-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option pricing model. The Company uses an option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock options granted that are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The Company accounts for stock options issued to non-employees based on the estimated fair value of the awards using the option pricing model. The measurement of stock-based compensation to non-employees is subject to periodic adjustments as the underlying equity instruments vest, and the resulting change in value, if any, is recognized in the Company's consolidated statements of operations during the period the related services are rendered.
The Company accounts for restricted stock awards based on the quoted market price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant that are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.
Revenue Recognition
Revenues are recognized when the following criteria are met: (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (2) transfer of product or technology has been completed or services have been rendered; (3) the fee is fixed or determinable; and (4) collectability is reasonably assured. To date, the Company's primary source of revenues has been derived from collaborative research agreements and government grants and to a lesser extent, product sales.
Product Sales
Product sales are derived from sales of seeds, trait fees, crop management services and biomass that was delivered under certain of our sales incentive and performance based programs for the 2012-2013 growing season in Brazil. Product sales are recognized, net of discounts and allowances, once passage of title and risk of loss have occurred and contractually specified acceptance criteria have been met, provided all other revenue recognition criteria have also been met. To date, product sales have not been significant.
Collaborative Research and Government Grants
From time to time, the Company enters into research and development collaboration agreements with third parties including several biofuel producers and government agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The research and development collaboration agreements typically provide the Company with multiple revenue streams, which may include up-front, non-refundable fees for licensing certain of the Company's technologies, government grants and fees for research and development activities, and contingent milestone payments based upon achievement of contractual criteria.
	•	Technology License Fees - For collaboration agreements in which the Company has continuing involvement, license fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the arrangement. Licensing fees are non-refundable and not subject to future performance.
	•	Government Grants - The Company receives payments from government entities in the form of government grants. Government grants generally provide the Company with partial cost reimbursement for certain types of expenditures in return for research and development activities over a contractually defined period. Revenues from government grants are recognized in the period during which the related costs are incurred, provided that the conditions under which the government grants were provided have been met and the Company has only perfunctory obligations outstanding.
	•	Research and Development Fees - Generally, fees for research and development activities are recognized as the services are performed over the performance period, as specified in the respective agreements. Certain of the Company's collaboration agreements require the Company to deliver research data by specific dates and that the collective program plan will result in reaching specific crop characteristics by certain dates. For such arrangements, the Company recognizes revenues based on the approximate percentage of completion of services under the agreement, but the revenue recognized cannot exceed payments received by the Company to date under the agreement. The research and development period is estimated at the inception of each agreement and is periodically evaluated.
	•	Milestone Fees - Fees that are contingent based on achievement of substantive performance milestones at inception of the agreement are recognized based on the achievement of the milestone, as defined in the respective agreements.
Deferred Revenue
The Company recognizes deferred revenue to the extent that cash received under the collaboration agreement is in excess of the revenues recognized related to the agreement since the work under the agreement has not yet been performed at the time of cash receipt, which is classified as other current liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
On December 20, 2007, the Company and Campbell Soup Company (Campbell) entered into a development and license agreement under which the Company was working to improve yields of a food product. The agreement provided that the Company would receive $7,500 in payments from Campbell over a five-year period provided milestones were met. In addition, the agreement provided that the Company would be entitled to receive a royalty based on the gross sales of crop varieties created under the agreement. In December 2011, the development and license agreement was amended to extend the $7,500 in payments from Campbell over a six-year period. In November 2012, following Campbell's sale of its vegetable seed assets to a third party, the development and license agreement, as amended, was terminated and cancelled. In connection with the termination, Campbell paid the Company $550 in full and complete satisfaction of all remaining financial obligations. The Company recognized revenue of $758, $933 and $1,683 under this agreement in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
The Company has earned research funding revenues from several agreements with the DOE, the USDA, USAID and several leading bio-fuels producers whereby the Company performed research activities and received revenues that partially reimbursed its expenses incurred. Under such grants and agreements, the Company retained a proprietary interest in the products and technology it developed. These expense reimbursements primarily consisted of direct expense sharing arrangements. The Company recorded revenue related to these grants of approximately $2,355, $2,416 and $3,120 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The cumulative remaining amount to be claimed for all grants and certain collaboration agreements outstanding as of August 31, 2013 is approximately $2,288.
On December 16, 2008, the Company and Syngenta Biotechnology, Inc. (Syngenta) entered into a software license and collaboration agreement pursuant to which the Company provided software, software development and customer support for certain research application-based software. The agreement was structured into three phases and under the agreement, the Company received $1,500 in payments over an approximate 4.5 year period. The software delivered is comprised of multiple elements, which include software, installation, training, customization of software, and software support. On April 16, 2012, the agreement was amended to reflect Syngenta's acceptance of all software and software support services provided under the original agreement and to allow for the continuation of certain software support services during a post development support period beginning April 16, 2012 and extending until all services are terminated pursuant to the terms of the agreement. The Company recognized revenues equal to the amount of expense recognized as services were rendered until April 15, 2012, when the software support became the only undelivered element. Beginning April 16, 2012, the unrecognized revenue under the agreement is being recognized ratably over the remaining software support period. The Company recognized revenues totaling $1,180, $750 and $243 under this agreement in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Research and Development
Research and development expenses principally consist of personnel costs related to the Company's research and development staff as well as depreciation of research and development assets. Research and development expenses also include costs incurred for laboratory supplies, reimbursable costs associated with government grants and collaborative agreements, third-party contract payments, consultants, facility and related overhead costs.
Seed Inventories
At August 31, 2013, inventory consisted of work-in-process costs related to sweet sorghum seeds. At August 31, 2012, inventory consisted of work-in-process and finished good costs related to sweet sorghum seeds. Inventory costs are computed on a first-in, first-out basis and valued at the lower of cost or market with any excess cost recognized during the period within cost of product sales. At August 31, 2013, all seed inventory other than work-in-process was fully written off based on the lower of cost or market, based on on the Company's evaluation of such inventory.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is provided for the amount of deferred tax assets that, based on available evidence, are not expected to be realized.
The Company accounts for unrecognized tax benefits also in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes, which prescribes a minimum probability threshold that a tax position must meet before a financial statement benefit is recognized. The minimum threshold is defined as a tax position that is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution to any related appeals or litigation, based solely on the technical merits of the position. The Company has no accrual for interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions at August 31, 2013 and 2012, and did not recognize interest or penalties in the Statements of Operations during the years ended August 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
The major jurisdictions in which the Company files income tax returns include the federal and state jurisdictions within the United States and Brazil, where it has a subsidiary. The tax years after 2008 remain open to examination by federal and state taxing jurisdictions and the tax years after 2010 remain open to examination by foreign jurisdictions. However, the Company has NOLs beginning in 1998 which would cause the statute of limitations to remain open for the year in which the NOL was incurred.
Foreign Currency Translation
The Brazilian real is the functional currency of the Company's subsidiary in Brazil. Accordingly, assets and liabilities of those operations are translated into United States dollars using the current exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date and equity accounts are translated into United States dollars using historical rates. Revenues and expenses are translated at the weighted average rate of exchange during the reporting period. Gains and losses from foreign currency translation adjustments are represented as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The Company's unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities and foreign currency translation adjustments represents the components of comprehensive income (income) and have been disclosed in the consolidated statements of stockholders' equity (deficit).
The following summarizes the changes in the balances of each component of accumulated comprehensive income (loss) during the years presented:
								Accumulated
		Foreign			Unrealized			Other
		Currency			Gains (Losses)			Comprehensive
		Translation			on Securities			Loss
Balance at August 31, 2011		$	(27	)	$	-		$	(27	)
Comprehensive (loss) gain			(262	)		6			(256	)
Balance at August 31, 2012			(289	)		6			(283	)
Comprehensive loss			(395	)		(18	)		(413	)
Balance at August 31, 2013		$	(684	)	$	(12	)	$	(696	)
Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share
Basic net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares and dilutive potential common share equivalents then outstanding, to the extent they are dilutive. Potential common shares consist of shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants (using the treasury stock method), and the weighted average conversion of the convertible preferred stock into shares of common stock (using the if-converted method). Dilutive net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share for all periods presented because the effects of potentially dilutive items were anti-dilutive.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per common share:
		Year Ended
		August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
Net loss		$	(32,511	)	$	(29,410	)	$	(36,336	)
Basic and diluted net loss per common share		$	(1.31	)	$	(2.18	)	$	(18.34	)
Basic and diluted weighted average outstanding common shares used for net loss			24,796,030			13,488,336			1,981,627
The following potentially dilutive, common share equivalents were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per common share because their effect was anti-dilutive for each of the periods presented:
		Year Ended
		August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
Options to purchase common stock			2,791,556			2,778,508			2,597,285
Warrants to purchase common stock			2,082,045			2,082,045			1,994,868
Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock			-			-			20,511
Convertible preferred stock			-			-			15,353,226
Convertible notes			-			-			1,171,818
Total			4,873,601			4,860,553			21,137,708
Segment and geographic information
Management has determined that it has one business activity and operates in one segment as it only reports financial information on an aggregate and consolidated basis to its Chief Executive Officer, who is the Company's chief operating decision maker. Geographic information regarding the Company's operations outside of North America is not significant for any period presented.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. ASU 2013-02 finalizes the requirements of ASU 2011-05 that ASU 2011-12 deferred, clarifying how to report the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. ASU 2013-02 is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012 and is to be applied prospectively. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of this ASU will materially change the presentation of its consolidated financial statements.
In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit as a reduction of a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss (NOL) carryforward, or similar tax loss or tax credit carryforward, rather than as a liability when: (1) the uncertain tax position would reduce the NOL or other carryforward under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction, and (2) the entity intends to use the deferred tax asset for that purpose. ASU 2013-11 changes existing presentation requirements but does not require new recurring disclosures and is effective for fiscal years, and the interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of this ASU will materially change the presentation of its consolidated financial statements.

Marketable_Securities

Marketable Securities	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Marketable Securities [Abstract]	'
Marketable Securities	'
	(2) Marketable Securities
	Marketable securities classified as available for sale consisted of the following:
		August 31, 2013
				Gross		Gross
		Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized
	Available for sale securities	Cost		Gain		Loss			Fair Value
	Certificates of Deposit	$	4,561	$	-	$	(6	)	$	4,555
	Commercial Paper		2,199		-		(1	)		2,198
	Corporate Bonds		16,081		2		(7	)		16,076
	Total	$	22,841	$	2	$	(14	)	$	22,829
	$1,199 of the commercial paper is included in the cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.
		August 31, 2012
				Gross		Gross
		Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized
	Available for sale securities	Cost		Gain		Loss			Fair Value
	Commercial Paper	$	10,187	$	2	$	(2	)	$	10,187
	Corporate Bonds		29,092		17		(11	)		29,098
	Total	$	39,279	$	19	$	(13	)	$	39,285
	There were no marketable securities classified as held-to maturity as of August 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The following tables summarize the amortized cost and fair value of the Company's marketable securities, classified by stated maturity as of August 31, 2013 and 2012:
		August 31, 2013
		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
	Marketable securities
	Due in 1 year or less	$	22,841	$	22,829
	Due in 1 - 2 years		-		-
		$	22,841	$	22,829
		31-Aug-12
		Amortized
		Cost		Fair Value
	Marketable securities
	Due in 1 year or less	$	33,567	$	33,565
	Due in 1 - 2 years		5,712		5,720
		$	39,279	$	39,285

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	(3) Inventories
	Inventories consisted of the following:
		August 31,		August 31,
		2013		2012
	Work in process	$	20	$	264
	Seed inventory		-		577
	Total inventories	$	20	$	841

Property_and_Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Property and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property and Equipment	'
	(4) Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are summarized as follows:
		As of
		August 31,
		2013			2012
	Land	$	43		$	43
	Automobiles and trucks		796			728
	Buildings		3,180			3,252
	Office, laboratory, farm and warehouse equipment and furniture		14,792			15,552
	Leasehold improvements		5,716			5,709
			24,527			25,284
	Less accumulated depreciation		(19,894	)		(19,528	)
	Property and equipment, net	$	4,633		$	5,756

Accounts_Payable_and_Accrued_E

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses [Abstract]	'
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	'
	(5) Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses
	Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following:
		As of
		August 31,
		2013		2012
	Accounts payable	$	1,289	$	1,865
	Accrued payroll and related expenses		1,020		2,530
	Research and development contracts		1,098		686
	Accrued grower commitments		38		76
	Other		380		319
		$	3,825	$	5,476

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	(6) Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt is summarized as follows:
		As of
		August 31,
		2013			2012
	Capital Leases	$	236		S	390
			236			390
	Less current portion		(154	)		(134	)
		$	82		$	256
	The aggregated maturities of debt as of August 31, 2013 are as follows:
	2014	$	154
	2015		73
	2016		9
		$	236

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	(7) Stock-Based Compensation
	Equity Plans
	The Company has established three equity plans: the Ceres, Inc. 2000 Stock Option/Stock Issuance Plan (2000 Plan), the Ceres, Inc. 2010 Stock Option/Stock Issuance Plan (2010 Plan) and the Amended and Restated Ceres, Inc. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (2011 Plan, and collectively with the 2000 Plan and the 2010 Plan, the Equity Plans). The Equity Plans provide for grants of Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) to employees and Nonqualified Stock Options (NSOs), stock and restricted stock to employees, directors, and consultants. In addition, the 2011 Plan provides for the grant of other equity based awards such as restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights and deferred stock to employees, directors and consultants. The option term, as determined by the Company's Board of Directors, may not exceed ten years. Vesting, also determined by the Company's Board of Directors, generally occurs ratably over four to five years. ISOs and NSOs may be granted at a price per share of not less than the fair market value at the date of grant.
	During September 2012, the Company modified options to purchase 403,333 shares of common stock that were scheduled to expire on December 18, 2012 by extending the terms such that the options now expire on December 18, 2015. A modification charge of $157 was recorded in September 2012.
	The total number of shares reserved for issuance under the Equity Plans is 6,754,999. At the Company's 2013 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the stockholders approved the amendment and restatement of the Ceres, Inc. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan, which increased the maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued under the plan by 1.5 million shares and prohibits the repricing of stock options without stockholder approval. As of August 31, 2013, the Company had 1,916,292 shares available under the 2011 Plan for future grant. The Company does not intend to make further grants under the 2000 Plan or the 2010 Plan.
	Stock Option Valuation and Compensation
	The Company uses a Black Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options. The weighted average grant date fair value of stock option awards was $2.64, $10.40 and $8.16 per option share for 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
	The weighted average grant date estimated fair value of the Company's common stock was $3.63, $14.44 and $11.97 per share for 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
	The fair value of employee stock options was estimated using the following weighted-average assumptions:
		Year ended
		August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected term (in years)		5.50-6.08			5.50-6.46			6.08-6.46
	Expected volatility		87%-88	%		78%-81	%		70%-78	%
	Risk free interest rate		0.82%-1.96	%		0.88%-1.35	%		1.48%-2.44	%
	Expected dividend yield		0	%		0	%		0	%
	Expected Term -  Because of limited employee share option exercises, the Company uses a simplified method in which the expected term of an award is presumed to be mid-point between the vesting date and the expiration date of the award. The expected term for all employee option grants is an average of 3.06 years.
	Expected Volatility -  The Company estimates the volatility of its common stock by using the historical volatility of a group of comparable companies over the option's expected term. The decision to use historical volatility of comparable companies was based upon the fact there is limited history of trading activity of the Company's common stock.
	Risk-Free Interest Rate -  The Company bases the risk-free interest rate used in the option valuation model on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with remaining terms similar to the expected term on the options.
	Expected Dividend Yield -  The Company does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
	Stock-based compensation expense included in operating expenses and total intrinsic value of stock options exercised are as follows:
		Year ended
		August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Stock-based compensation costs for employee stock options	$	3,624		$	2,464		$	1,478
	Fair value changes of collaboration warrants		(314	)		(555	)		1,232
	Total stock-based compensation costs included in operating expenses	$	3,310		$	1,909		$	2,710
	Intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$	79		$	3,573		$	632
	Stock Option Activity
	The following summarizes the stock option transactions under the Equity Plans during the periods presented:
					Weighted
					Average
		Shares			Exercise Price
	Options outstanding at August 31, 2011		2,597,285		$	6.06
	Options granted		623,645			12.77
	Options exercised		(298,282	)		2.11
	Options forfeited		(144,140	)		7.34
	Options outstanding at August 31, 2012		2,778,508			7.92
	Options granted		315,064			3.63
	Options exercised		(23,832	)		2.36
	Options forfeited		(278,184	)		7.87
	Options outstanding at August 31, 2013		2,791,556		$	7.49
	The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at August 31, 2013:
					Average								Average
					Remaining			Weighted-			Number		Remaining		Weighted-
	Range of	Number			Contractual			Average			Vested and		Contractual		Average
	Exercise Price	Outstanding			Life			Exercise Price			Exercisable		Life		Exercise Price
	$1.95		415,331			2.26		$	1.95			415,331		2.26	$	1.95
	$3.90 - $4.05		301,492			2.5			3.91			301,492		2.5		3.91
	$6.75		808,211			5.29			6.75			761,705		5.2		6.75
	$7.32		192,940			7.29			7.32			127,585		7.29		7.32
	$16.77		160,536			7.78			16.77			72,990		7.76		16.77
	$17.16		79,028			7.88			17.16			33,951		7.88		17.16
	$12.71		36,442			8.29			12.71			12,454		8.22		12.71
	$12.10		46,664			8.49			12.1			46,664		8.49		12.1
	$13.00		444,817			8.49			13			-		-		-
	$8.97		750			8.8			8.97			225		8.8		8.97
	$6.66		11,666			8.98			6.66			-		-		-
	$3.60 - $7.70		25,350			9.03			5.7			12,300		8.86		7.7
	$3.94		24,000			9.25			3.94			-		-		-
	$3.32		64,163			9.42			3.32			-		-		-
	$3.49		1,500			9.44			3.49			-		-		-
	$1.40 - $3.30		178,666			9.81			3.18			-		-		-
		2,791,556									1,784,697
No tax benefits were recorded on compensation costs recognized during the year ended August 31, 2013. The tax benefit realized from options exercised during the year ended August 31, 2012 was $32. No tax benefits were recorded on compensation costs recognized for the year ended August 31, 2011. As of August 31, 2013 and 2012, there were $5,389 and $8,189 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options respectively. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average 3.06 years. The Company's policy is to issue new shares for options exercised.
Restricted Stock Activity
The following summarizes the restricted stock transactions under the Equity Plans for the periods presented:
				Weighted
				Average
				Grant Date
	Shares			Fair Value
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at August 31, 2011		833		$	6.51
Restricted stock granted		45,100			12.16
Restricted stock vested		(833	)		6.51
Restricted stock forfeited		(4,500	)		12.71
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at August 31, 2012		40,600			12.1
Restricted stock granted		288,375			5.24
Restricted stock vested		(19,100	)		11.42
Restricted stock forfeited		(19,175	)		8.81
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at August 31, 2013		290,700		$	5.55
As of August 31, 2013, there was $1,064 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock awards. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 2.09 years.
Stock Activity
During June 2013, the Company granted 60,000 shares of common stock under the 2011 Plan with a fair market value of $3.33 per share. The Company recorded $200 of expense in the year ended August 31, 2013 related to this stock grant

Convertible_Notes_and_Warrant_

Convertible Notes and Warrant Modification	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Convertible Notes and Warrant Modification [Abstract]	'
Convertible Notes and Warrant Modification	'
	(8) Convertible Notes and Warrant Modification
	In August 2011, the Company completed the sale of $11,425 aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes to nine existing investors in the Company in a private placement. The Convertible Notes were convertible, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, into shares of the Company's common stock upon the consummation of a qualified initial public offering of the Company's common stock at a price per share equal to 20% discount from the public offering price, or $10.40. Purchasers of the Convertible Notes included holders of more than 5% of the Company's outstanding capital stock and affiliates of certain of the Company's directors. Additionally, so long as any investors who held warrants to purchase shares of the Company's common stock issued in connection with certain of the Company's preferred stock financings purchased at least their respective full pro rata portion of the Convertible Notes being offered, the Company agreed to amend the termination provisions of such investors existing warrants such that the warrants no longer expired upon the IPO. In January 2012, the Company amended the Convertible Notes such that the notes would have automatically converted into shares of convertible preferred stock had the initial public offering not consummated by June 30, 2012.
	In connection with the offering of the Convertible Notes, warrants to purchase 539,972 shares of common stock issued in connection with the Company's Series F Preferred Stock offering, or the Modified F warrants and all of the warrants issued in connection with the Company's Series G Preferred Stock offering were amended such that they would not expire upon the consummation of a qualified initial public offering. Warrants to purchase 229,257 shares of common stock issued in connection with the Series F Preferred Stock offering, or the Non-Modified F warrants were not amended and remain outstanding.
	The Company calculated the fair value of the modified warrants immediately prior to and subsequent to the modification and determined that the cumulative incremental increase in the fair value of these liability classified warrants associated with this modification to be $9,633. Accordingly, the Company recorded the change in value to other income (expense) in August 2011.
	Until such time as the conversion features were triggered, the Company accounted for the Convertible Notes and various embedded derivatives in accordance with ASC 825-10, the Fair Value Option for Financial Liabilities, whereby the Company initially and subsequently measured this financial instrument in its entirety at fair value, with the changes in fair value recorded each quarterly reporting period in other income (expense).
	The Company obtained the assistance of a third-party valuation firm in estimating that the fair market value of the Convertible Notes as if August 31, 2011 was $13,630. The Company estimated the fair value of the Convertible Notes upon the closing of the IPO to be $14,282. Accordingly, the change in fair value was recorded in other income (expense).
	Upon closing of the IPO, the Convertible Notes were revalued and converted into 1,098,575 shares of common stock (see Note (9))

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	(9) Stockholders' Equity
	Initial Public Offering
	Upon closing of the IPO (see Note (1)):
		•	the Company's outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock were automatically converted into 15,353,221 shares of common stock;
		•	the Convertible Notes were revalued and converted into 1,098,575 shares of common stock; and
		•	the outstanding convertible preferred stock warrants were revalued and automatically converted into warrants to purchase a total of 20,511 shares of common stock.
	Common Stock
	Pursuant to the Company's amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the Company is authorized to issue 490,000,000 shares of common stock. Holders of the Company's common stock are entitled to dividends as and when declared by the Board of Directors, subject to rights and holders of all classes of stock outstanding having priority rights to dividends. There have been no dividends declared to date. Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote.
	Preferred Stock
	Pursuant to the Company's amended and restated certificate of incorporation, the Company is authorized to issue 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock. The Board of Directors has the authority, without action by the Company's stockholders, to designate and issue shares of preferred stock in one or more series and to fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions thereof.
	Common and Preferred Stock Warrants Financing
	Warrants issued in connection with Series F Convertible Preferred Stock Financing
	In connection with the issuance of the Series F Convertible Preferred Stock in September 2007, the Company issued warrants to purchase 769,229 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $19.50 per share. The warrants are immediately exercisable.
	As discussed in Note (1), the common stock warrants issued to the holders of Series F Convertible Preferred Stock were reported as a liability at fair value as of each balance sheet date. Upon closing of the IPO, the common stock warrants no longer met the requirements for liability classification. The warrants were revalued as of the closing date and reclassified to additional paid-in capital.
	Upon closing of the IPO, the Company estimated the fair value of certain warrants (Non-Modified F warrants and Modified F warrants) to be $6,301 based on a risk free rate of 0.40%, expected volatility of 89%, expected term of 3.5 years and 0% dividend yield.
	Warrants issued in connection with Series G Convertible Preferred Stock Financing
	In connection with the issuance of the Series G Convertible Preferred Stock in June 2010, the Company issued warrants to purchase 1,025,640 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $19.50 per share. The warrants are immediately exercisable.
	As discussed in Note (1), the common stock warrants issued to the holders of Series G Convertible Preferred Stock were reported as a liability at fair value as of each balance sheet date. Upon closing of the IPO, the common stock warrants no longer met the requirements for liability classification. The warrants were revalued as of the closing date and reclassified to additional paid-in capital.
	Upon closing of the IPO, the Company estimated the fair value of these warrants to be $10,633 based on a risk free rate of 1.64%, expected volatility of 73%, expected term of 8.3 years and 0% dividend yield.
	Warrants issued in connection with Borrowing and Loan Agreements
	In July 2004, in connection with a borrowing agreement (Borrowing Agreement) entered into with the Bank, the Company issued the Bank warrants to purchase 18,461 shares of the Company's Series E Convertible Preferred Stock. Upon closing of the IPO, these preferred stock warrants were converted into warrants to purchase 6,153 shares of common stock at $19.50 per share.
	In February 2010, in connection with the Loan Agreement (see Note (6)), the Company issued the Bank warrants to purchase 43,076 shares of the Company's Series F Convertible Preferred Stock. Upon closing of the IPO, these preferred stock warrants were converted into warrants to purchase 14,358 shares of common stock at $19.50 per share.
	As discussed in Note (1), the preferred stock warrants issued in connection with the Borrowing Agreement and the Loan Agreement were reported as a liability at fair value as of each balance sheet date. Upon closing of the IPO, these preferred stock warrants no longer met the requirements for liability classification. These preferred stock warrants were revalued as of the closing date and reclassified to additional paid-in capital.
	Upon closing of the IPO, the Company estimated the fair value of the Series E and F preferred stock warrants to be $68 and $158, respectively, based on a risk-free interest rate of 1.35%, volatility of 81%, expected term of 7.96 - 8.01 years, and 0% dividend yield.
	Warrants issued in connection with Noble Agreement
	In May 2006, the Company entered into a collaboration agreement with The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. (Noble) (Noble Agreement) to establish a research program (see Note (13)). In connection with this collaboration, the Company granted Noble a warrant to purchase 133,333 shares of the Company's common stock for an exercise price of $30.00 per share. The original terms were as follows: the warrant vests in equal installments of 33,333 shares on May 19, 2009, May 19, 2011, May 19, 2013, and May 19, 2015, respectively, and shall remain exercisable for a period of two years from the respective vesting dates. These warrants are accounted for at fair value and remeasured until vested. The fair value, including the resulting change in value as a result of remeasurement is being recognized as research and development expense. The inception to date expense recognized with respect to this warrant totals $625 as of August 31, 2013. At August 31, 2013, 99,999 warrants had vested under this arrangement. The fair value of the warrants not yet vested at August 31, 2013 was $1.0 using a risk-free rate of 1.21% based on the respective exercise periods of each installment, expected volatility of 73.3%, expected term of 3.72 years based on the respective exercise periods of each installment, which is also the remaining contractual term, and 0% dividend yield.
	In June 2011, the Company and Noble agreed to modify the warrants issued to Noble as follows: the warrant vests in equal installments of 33,333 shares on May 19, 2013 and May 19, 2015, respectively and shall remain exercisable until the earliest of a period of five years from the respective vesting dates and May 18, 2017.
	Warrants issued in connection with TAMU Agreement
	In August 2007, the Company entered into a sponsored research and intellectual property rights agreement with The Texas A&M University System (TAMU) to establish a research program (see Note (13)). In connection with this collaboration, the Company granted TAMU a warrant to purchase 66,666 shares of the Company's common stock for an exercise price of $30.00 per share. The warrant vests based on certain research and commercialization milestones being met and shall remain exercisable until August 28, 2017. This warrant is accounted for at fair value and remeasured until the vesting targets are met. The fair value, including the resulting change in value as a result of remeasurement is being recognized as research and development expense. The inception to date expense recognized with respect to this warrant totals $2.0 as of August 31, 2013. The fair value of the warrants at August 31, 2013 was $2.4, using a risk-free rate of 1.19%, expected volatility of 73.3%, expected term of 3.99  years and 0% dividend yield. No warrants had vested under this arrangement as of August 31, 2013.
	In December 2011, pursuant to an Amended and Restated Intellectual Property Rights Agreement (IP Rights Agreement) (see Note (13)), the Company issued warrants to TAMU to purchase 66,666 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share. The warrants expire on September 24, 2026 and, subject to certain conditions, vest in equal installments on the fifth, tenth and fifteenth anniversary of the IP Rights Agreement. The inception to date expense recognized with respect to this warrant totals $10.9 as of August 31, 2013. The fair value of the warrants at August 31, 2013 was $49.7, using a risk-free rate of 2.78%, expected volatility of 78.9%, expected term of 13.06 years and 0% dividend yield. No warrants had vested under this arrangement as of August 31, 2013.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	(10) Income Taxes
	Deferred tax benefits associated with deferred tax assets are offset by a corresponding valuation allowance. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and amounts used for income tax purposes.
	Income tax expense (benefit) attributable to loss before income taxes consisted of the following:
		Current			Deferred			Total
	Year ended August 31, 2013
	U.S. federal	$	-		$	-		$	-
	State and local		1			-			1
		$	1		$	-		$	1
		Current			Deferred			Total
	Year ended August 31, 2012
	U.S. federal	$	-		$	-		$	-
	State and local		3			-			3
		$	3		$	-		$	3
		Current			Deferred			Total
	Year ended August 31, 2011
	U.S. federal	$	(30	)	$	-		$	(30	)
	State and local		(1	)		-			(1	)
		$	(31	)	$	-		$	(31	)
	Income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the federal corporate income tax rate of 34% to the loss before income taxes due to the following:
		Year Ended			Year Ended			Year Ended
		August 31,			August 31,			August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Computed "expected" tax expense (benefit)	$	(11,054	)	$	(9,999	)	$	(12,365	)
	Increase (reduction) in income taxes resulting from:
	Stock-based compensation		876			636			893
	State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		1			2			(1	)
	Foreign rate differential		-			1,258			512
	Convertible note changes and change in fair value		-			-			750
	Warrants modification and changes in fair value		-			29			2,997
	Other		17			182			7
	Change in valuation allowance		10,161			7,895			7,176
	Income tax expense (benefit)	$	1		$	3		$	(31	)
	The following table summarizes the tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities at each period end:
		August 31,			August 31,
		2013			2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Accrued liabilities	$	163		$	799
	Other assets		77			17
	Inventory capitalization		265			145
	Deferred revenue		-			275
	Total current deferred tax assets		505			1,236
	Noncurrent assets:
	Depreciation		2,150			2,044
	Inventory reserves		2,427			2,328
	Deferred rent		36			27
	Other assets		568			301
	Net operating loss carryforward		88,791			74,412
	Federal and state tax credit carryforward		8,919			8,919
	Total noncurrent deferred tax assets		102,891			88,031
	Total deferred tax assets		103,396			89,267
	Less valuation allowance		(103,396	)		(89,267	)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	-		$	-
	As of August 31, 2013, the Company had $223,205 of federal, $152,667 of state and $14,625 of foreign net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards available to offset future taxable income, if any, which expire in varying amounts from 2018 through 2033 for federal tax purposes and from 2014 through 2033 for state tax purposes if unused. The carry forward period for the foreign NOL is indefinite. The excess tax benefits associated with the exercise of non-qualified stock options, restricted stock grants, and disqualifying dispositions of incentive stock option stock, for 2013 and 2012 in the amount of $2,458 and $2,367, respectively, did not reduce the current income taxes payable and, accordingly, are not included in the deferred tax asset relating to NOL carryforwards, but are included with the federal and state NOL carryforwards. In addition, the Company has alternative minimum tax (AMT) for state income tax purposes of approximately $17 and research and development tax carryforwards for federal income tax purposes of approximately $8,907, which are available to offset future tax liabilities, if any, through 2029.
	In accordance with Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Sections 382 and 383, the annual utilization of net operating loss carryforwards and credits is limited if a change in control occurs, including a change resulting from an initial public offering. The Company has not completed a Section 382 analysis to determine if a change in ownership has occurred. Until such analysis is completed, there are no assurances that the existing net operating loss carryforwards or credits are not subject to significant limitation.
	In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Based upon the historical taxable income (loss) and projections for future taxable income (loss) over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely that the Company will not realize the benefits of these deductible differences. Accordingly, the Company has established a full valuation allowance of $103,396 and $ 89,267 for the years ended August 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

401k_Benefit_Plan

401(k) Benefit Plan	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
401(k) Benefit Plan [Abstract]	'
401(k) Benefit Plan	'
	(11) 401(k) Benefit Plan
	The Company has a 401(k) profit sharing plan (the Plan) which covers substantially all employees of the Company. Plan participants may make voluntary contributions of up to 60% of their earnings up to the statutory limit. The Company will match 50% of each employee contribution up to a maximum of 4% of the employee's salary in matching funds per pay period. The matching contribution vests over a three-year service period; 25% vests immediately and an additional 25% vests for each year of service to the Company thereafter over the next three years. The Company recorded expense of $288, $297 and $279 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company made no discretionary contributions in any year.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	(12) Commitments and Contingencies
	The Company leases certain of its facilities and equipment under various noncancelable operating leases expiring through 2023. The leases on the facilities contains provisions for future rent increases. The Company records monthly rent expense equal to the total of the payments due over the lease term, divided by the number of months of the lease term. The difference between rent expense recorded and the amount paid is credited or charged to deferred rent, which is reflected as a separate line item in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2013 and 2012.
	In connection with one of its facilities leases, the Company received a reimbursement for leasehold improvements of $270. This reimbursement is a lease incentive which has been recognized as a liability in deferred rent and is being amortized to rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Total rental expense recognized during each period was $500, $519 and $645 for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Future minimum payments under noncancelable operating leases as of August 31, 2013 are as follows:
		Operating
		leases
	2014	$	595
	2015		548
	2016		550
	2017		559
	2018		575
	Thereafter		688
	Total minimum lease payments	$	3,515

Research_Collaboration_Agreeme

Research Collaboration Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Research Collaboration Agreements [Abstract]	'
Research Collaboration Agreements	'
	(13) Research Collaboration Agreements
	The Company has a number of research agreements with academic collaborators, including among others, TAMU, Noble, and the Institute of Crop Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. In connection with these agreements, the Company receives certain exclusive options or licensing rights to technology and intellectual property developed under these agreements. The Company expenses amounts under these agreements to research and development expense in the period in which the services are rendered. The Company also licenses technology from third parties. Initial payments under these license agreements are capitalized and expensed on a straight-line basis over the license term.
	Noble Agreement
	In May 2006, the Company entered into a collaboration agreement with Noble to establish a research program. Under the Noble Agreement, the Company agreed to fund certain research activities undertaken by Noble in an amount up to $3,800 through July 31, 2012 and granted Noble a warrant to purchase 133,333 shares of the Company's common stock for an exercise price of $30.00 per share (see Note (9)). Additional projects may be added under the agreement, if agreed to by both parties.
	Under the collaboration agreement, in August 2012 the Company agreed to fund certain research activities undertaken by Noble through July 31, 2013 and 2014 of $82.7 and $85.3 per year, respectively.
	TAMU Agreement
	In August 2007, the Company entered into a Sponsored Research and Intellectual Property Rights agreement with TAMU to establish a research program. Under the agreement, the Company agreed to fund certain research activities undertaken by TAMU in an amount up to $5,100 through 2012 and granted TAMU a warrant to purchase 66,666 shares of the Company's common stock for an exercise price of $30.00 per share (see Note (9)).
	On September 24, 2011, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Sponsored Research Agreement and an Amended and Restated Intellectual Property Rights Agreement (the "IP Rights Agreement") with TAMU which both expire on September 23, 2026. The specific research projects and budgets undertaken pursuant to such agreement will be determined by an Executive Committee comprised of two members from each of TAMU and the Company as set forth in the Amended and Restated Sponsored Research Agreement. In December 2011, pursuant to the IP Rights Agreement, the Company issued warrants to TAMU to purchase 66,666 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.30 per share (see Note (9)).
	At August 31, 2013, the future minimum payments under the Company's research collaboration agreements are as follows:
	2014	$	3,041
	2015		2,977
	2016		2,966
	2017		613
		$	9,597

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_I

Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) [Abstract]	'
Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited)	'
	(14) Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited)
	The following is a summary of the unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended August 31, 2013 and 2012
		November 30,			February 29,			May 31,			August 31,
		2012			2013			2013			2013
	2013:00:00
	Net sales	$	1,966		$	1,026		$	1,355		$	898
	Cost of revenues		700			2,280			2,134			1,132
	Operating loss		(6,921	)		(9,014	)		(9,317	)		(7,339	)
	Net loss		(6,894	)		(8,966	)		(9,323	)		(7,331	)
	Basic and diluted net loss per  share		(0.28	)		(0.36	)		(0.38	)		(0.29	)
		November 30,			February 29,			May 31,			August 31,
		2011			2012			2012			2012
	2012:00:00
	Net sales	$	1,748		$	1,311		$	1,148		$	1,164
	Cost of revenues		763			487			627			507
	Operating loss		(7,094	)		(6,980	)		(8,078	)		(6,650	)
	Net loss		(7,540	)		(6,831	)		(8,416	)		(6,623	)
	Basic and diluted net loss per  share		(3.73	)		(2.48	)		(0.34	)		(0.27	)
	Quarterly and year-to-date computations of per share amounts are made independently. Therefore, the sum of per share amounts for the quarters may not agree with per share amounts for the year shown elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Events	'
	(15) Subsequent Events
	On October 11, 2013, the Company announced a restructuring plan which includes a workforce reduction that will impact 17 positions in the U.S, and is expected to be substantially completed by May 31, 2014.  The Company estimates that it will incur total charges of approximately $1.6 million during the first nine months of fiscal year 2014 with respect to the workforce reduction in the U.S.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2013

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

'

Description of Business

'

Description of Business

Ceres, Inc. (Company) is an agricultural biotechnology company selling seeds to produce dedicated energy crops - renewable bioenergy feedstocks that can enable the large-scale replacement of petroleum and other fossil fuels. The Company uses a combination of advanced plant breeding and biotechnology to develop seed products.

In January 2010, the Company incorporated a subsidiary, Ceres Sementes do Brasil Ltda. The Company's ownership in this subsidiary is 99.9% and the Company's Chief Executive Officer owns the remaining interest.

On January 24, 2012, the Company filed an amended and restated certificate of incorporation which effected a 1 for 3 reverse stock split of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of common stock. The par value of the common stock was not adjusted as a result of the reverse stock split. All issued and outstanding shares of common stock and stock options and per share amounts contained in the Company's consolidated financial statements have been retroactively adjusted to reflect this reverse stock split for all periods presented.

On February 27, 2012, the Company closed its initial public offering (IPO) of 5,750,000 shares of common stock (including 750,000 shares purchased by the underwriters upon the exercise of their option to purchase up to an additional 750,000 shares) at an offering price of $13.00 per share, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $65,158, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses. Upon closing of the IPO, all of the Company's outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock were automatically converted into 15,353,221 shares of common stock, all of the Company's outstanding convertible subordinated notes (Convertible Notes) were automatically converted into 1,098,575 shares of common stock and all of the Company's outstanding convertible preferred stock warrants were automatically converted into warrants to purchase a total of 20,511 shares of common stock.

Liquidity

'

Liquidity

The Company has incurred substantial net losses from operations since its inception, including net losses of $32,511, $29,410 and $36,336 for the years ended August 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. As of August 31, 2013 the Company had an accumulated deficit of $274,584.

Management has taken certain actions subsequent to August 31, 2013 to extend the Company's available working capital. The Company expects to incur additional losses related to the continued development and expansion of its business, including research and development, seed production and operations, and sales and marketing. The Company plans to finance its operations for the next 12 to 15 months with cash and investments currently on hand, with cash inflows from collaboration and grant funding and from product sales. There is no assurance that the Company will achieve profitable operations, or if achieved, that profitable operations can be sustained on a continued basis.

Management believes that the Company's cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities at August 31, 2013 are sufficient to fund operations for the next 12 months.

Basis of Presentation

'

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and with the Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiary. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates

'

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions. This affects the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the valuation of property and equipment, inventory, deferred tax assets, common stock, convertible preferred stock, stock options, warrant liabilities and convertible notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Cash Equivalents

'

Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments, with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased, to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents totaled $8,881 and $16,769 at August 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Marketable Securities

'

Marketable Securities

Marketable securities are classified as available for sale and are recorded at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, if any, net of taxes, reported as a component of shareholders' equity until realized or until a determination is made that an other-than-temporary decline in market value has occurred.

In determining whether an other-than-temporary impairment exists for debt securities, management considers: (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and (3) the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. Management has determined that there has been no other-than-temporary impairment of its marketable securities.

The cost of marketable securities sold is based upon the specific identification method and any realized gains or losses on the sale of investments are reflected as a component of interest income or expense. There were no sales of marketable securities during the years ended August 31, 2013 and 2012.

The Company classifies marketable securities as current or non-current based upon whether such assets are reasonably expected to be realized in cash or sold or consumed during the normal operating cycle of the business.

Financial Instruments

'

Financial Instruments

The carrying value of financial instruments such as cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivables, accounts payable, and accrued expenses approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. At each period end, the fair value of the long-term debt approximated carrying value based on interest rates currently available to the Company.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

'

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated financial statements are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value. Hierarchical levels that are directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to the valuation of these assets or liabilities are as follows:

•

Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company can access at the measurement date.

•

Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.

•

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The following tables present the Company's financial assets that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of August 31, 2013 and 2012 by level within the fair value hierarchy:

August 31, 2013

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Financial Assets

Money market funds

$

2,310

$

-

$

-

$

2,310

Certificates of deposit - available for sale

-

4,555

-

4,555

Commercial paper - available for sale

-

2,198

-

2,198

Corporate bonds - available for sale

-

16,076

-

16,076

Total

$

2,310

$

22,829

$

-

$

25,139

All of the money market funds and $1,199 of the commercial paper are included in cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.

August 31, 2012

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

Financial Assets

Money market funds

$

16,769

$

-

$

-

$

16,769

Commercial paper - available for sale

-

10,187

-

10,187

Corporate bonds - available for sale

-

29,098

-

29,098

Total

$

16,769

$

39,285

$

-

$

56,054

All of the money market funds are included in cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.

Accounts Receivable

'

Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable represents amounts owed to the Company from product sales and collaborative research and government grants. The Company had no amounts reserved for doubtful accounts at August 31, 2013 and 2012 as the Company expected full collection of the accounts receivable balances.

Customers representing greater than 10% of accounts receivable were as follows (in percentages):

As of

August 31,

Customers

2013

2012

Customer A

37.3

47.9

Customer B

23.1

*

Customer D

**

13.6

Customer E

*

15.2

Customer F

21.8

**

*

Less than 10%

**

No balance

Customers representing greater than 10% of revenues were as follows (in percentages):

Year Ended August 31,

Customers

2013

2012

2011

Customer A

21.2

24.7

20.5

Customer B

20.2

16.8

16.6

Customer C

**

*

20.9

Customer D

14.5

17.4

25.4

Customer F

22.5

14

*

*

Less than 10%

**

No revenue

Property and Equipment

'

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives or the remaining life of the lease. Depreciation periods for the Company's property and equipment are as follows:

Automobiles and trucks

3-5 years

Office, laboratory, farm and warehouse equipment and furniture

3-5 years

Leasehold improvements

3-10 years

Buildings

14-39 years

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

'

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. To the extent that an impairment indicator has occurred, recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. In fiscal years 2013 and 2012 there was an indicator that impairment has occurred. However, there was no impairment as the carrying amount of the property and equipment did not exceed the fair value of such assets.

On February 3, 2012, the Company's plant breeding and field research station located near College Station, Texas was damaged by a tornado. The impact was limited to structural damage to the building that houses office space and a small laboratory used to evaluate biomass samples and work space. A small greenhouse and tractor sheds, and some agricultural equipment were also damaged.

In fiscal year 2012, the Company impaired $1,026 in assets related to damage at the Texas facility and received insurance proceeds of $1,000 for repair costs. The remainder of the repairs, which totaled approximately $150, were completed by November 30, 2012. These remaining repairs were also covered by insurance, subject to the Company's deductible.

Common and Convertible Preferred Stock Warrant Liabilities

'

Common and Convertible Preferred Stock Warrant Liabilities

Prior to the closing of the IPO, the Company determined that common stock warrants issued to certain holders of convertible preferred stock were not considered indexed to the Company's common stock and therefore required liability classification. In addition, the Company accounted for its warrants to purchase shares of the Company's convertible preferred stock that were contingently redeemable as liabilities at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. These common and convertible preferred stock warrants were subject to re-measurement at each balance sheet date and the changes in fair value, if any, were recognized as other (expense) income.

Upon the closing of the IPO, certain common and convertible preferred stock warrants, previously classified as liabilities were revalued and reclassified to additional paid-in capital as they no longer met the requirements for liability classification given the automatic conversion of the convertible preferred stock to common stock upon consummation of the IPO.

Convertible Preferred Stock

'

Convertible Preferred Stock

In connection with the Company's decision to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the IPO, the Company adopted the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 480-10-S99-3A, Classification and Measurement of Redeemable Securities.

The convertible preferred stock was not redeemable by the Company or at the option of the preferred stockholders. The holders of the Company's outstanding convertible preferred stock, voting or consenting together as a separate class, controlled the vote of the Company's stockholders. As a result, the holders of all series of the Company's convertible preferred stock could vote to approve a change in control under circumstances that would trigger a deemed liquidation under the Company's certificate of incorporation in effect prior to the IPO. As redemption of the convertible preferred stock through a deemed liquidation was outside the control of the Company, all shares of convertible preferred stock were classified as temporary equity rather than as a component of stockholders' equity in the Company's consolidated balance sheets. The carrying value of convertible preferred stock was recorded at its fair value at the date of issue. As discussed in Note (1), all of the outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock were automatically converted into shares of common stock upon the closing of the IPO.

Stock-Based Compensation

'

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation arrangements with employees using a fair value method under ASC Topic 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation, which requires the recognition of compensation expense for costs related to all stock-based payments including stock options and restricted stock awards.

The fair value method requires the Company to estimate the fair value of stock-based payment awards on the date of grant using an option pricing model. The Company uses an option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock options granted that are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The Company accounts for stock options issued to non-employees based on the estimated fair value of the awards using the option pricing model. The measurement of stock-based compensation to non-employees is subject to periodic adjustments as the underlying equity instruments vest, and the resulting change in value, if any, is recognized in the Company's consolidated statements of operations during the period the related services are rendered.

The Company accounts for restricted stock awards based on the quoted market price of the Company's common stock on the date of grant that are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

Revenue Recognition

'

Revenue Recognition

Revenues are recognized when the following criteria are met: (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (2) transfer of product or technology has been completed or services have been rendered; (3) the fee is fixed or determinable; and (4) collectability is reasonably assured. To date, the Company's primary source of revenues has been derived from collaborative research agreements and government grants and to a lesser extent, product sales.

Product Sales

Product sales are derived from sales of seeds, trait fees, crop management services and biomass that was delivered under certain of our sales incentive and performance based programs for the 2012-2013 growing season in Brazil. Product sales are recognized, net of discounts and allowances, once passage of title and risk of loss have occurred and contractually specified acceptance criteria have been met, provided all other revenue recognition criteria have also been met. To date, product sales have not been significant.

Collaborative Research and Government Grants

From time to time, the Company enters into research and development collaboration agreements with third parties including several biofuel producers and government agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The research and development collaboration agreements typically provide the Company with multiple revenue streams, which may include up-front, non-refundable fees for licensing certain of the Company's technologies, government grants and fees for research and development activities, and contingent milestone payments based upon achievement of contractual criteria.

•

Technology License Fees - For collaboration agreements in which the Company has continuing involvement, license fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the arrangement. Licensing fees are non-refundable and not subject to future performance.

•

Government Grants - The Company receives payments from government entities in the form of government grants. Government grants generally provide the Company with partial cost reimbursement for certain types of expenditures in return for research and development activities over a contractually defined period. Revenues from government grants are recognized in the period during which the related costs are incurred, provided that the conditions under which the government grants were provided have been met and the Company has only perfunctory obligations outstanding.

•

Research and Development Fees - Generally, fees for research and development activities are recognized as the services are performed over the performance period, as specified in the respective agreements. Certain of the Company's collaboration agreements require the Company to deliver research data by specific dates and that the collective program plan will result in reaching specific crop characteristics by certain dates. For such arrangements, the Company recognizes revenues based on the approximate percentage of completion of services under the agreement, but the revenue recognized cannot exceed payments received by the Company to date under the agreement. The research and development period is estimated at the inception of each agreement and is periodically evaluated.

•

Milestone Fees - Fees that are contingent based on achievement of substantive performance milestones at inception of the agreement are recognized based on the achievement of the milestone, as defined in the respective agreements.

Deferred Revenue

The Company recognizes deferred revenue to the extent that cash received under the collaboration agreement is in excess of the revenues recognized related to the agreement since the work under the agreement has not yet been performed at the time of cash receipt, which is classified as other current liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

On December 20, 2007, the Company and Campbell Soup Company (Campbell) entered into a development and license agreement under which the Company was working to improve yields of a food product. The agreement provided that the Company would receive $7,500 in payments from Campbell over a five-year period provided milestones were met. In addition, the agreement provided that the Company would be entitled to receive a royalty based on the gross sales of crop varieties created under the agreement. In December 2011, the development and license agreement was amended to extend the $7,500 in payments from Campbell over a six-year period. In November 2012, following Campbell's sale of its vegetable seed assets to a third party, the development and license agreement, as amended, was terminated and cancelled. In connection with the termination, Campbell paid the Company $550 in full and complete satisfaction of all remaining financial obligations. The Company recognized revenue of $758, $933 and $1,683 under this agreement in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

The Company has earned research funding revenues from several agreements with the DOE, the USDA, USAID and several leading bio-fuels producers whereby the Company performed research activities and received revenues that partially reimbursed its expenses incurred. Under such grants and agreements, the Company retained a proprietary interest in the products and technology it developed. These expense reimbursements primarily consisted of direct expense sharing arrangements. The Company recorded revenue related to these grants of approximately $2,355, $2,416 and $3,120 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The cumulative remaining amount to be claimed for all grants and certain collaboration agreements outstanding as of August 31, 2013 is approximately $2,288.

On December 16, 2008, the Company and Syngenta Biotechnology, Inc. (Syngenta) entered into a software license and collaboration agreement pursuant to which the Company provided software, software development and customer support for certain research application-based software. The agreement was structured into three phases and under the agreement, the Company received $1,500 in payments over an approximate 4.5 year period. The software delivered is comprised of multiple elements, which include software, installation, training, customization of software, and software support. On April 16, 2012, the agreement was amended to reflect Syngenta's acceptance of all software and software support services provided under the original agreement and to allow for the continuation of certain software support services during a post development support period beginning April 16, 2012 and extending until all services are terminated pursuant to the terms of the agreement. The Company recognized revenues equal to the amount of expense recognized as services were rendered until April 15, 2012, when the software support became the only undelivered element. Beginning April 16, 2012, the unrecognized revenue under the agreement is being recognized ratably over the remaining software support period. The Company recognized revenues totaling $1,180, $750 and $243 under this agreement in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Research and Development

'

Research and Development

Research and development expenses principally consist of personnel costs related to the Company's research and development staff as well as depreciation of research and development assets. Research and development expenses also include costs incurred for laboratory supplies, reimbursable costs associated with government grants and collaborative agreements, third-party contract payments, consultants, facility and related overhead costs.

Seed Inventories

'

Seed Inventories

At August 31, 2013, inventory consisted of work-in-process costs related to sweet sorghum seeds. At August 31, 2012, inventory consisted of work-in-process and finished good costs related to sweet sorghum seeds. Inventory costs are computed on a first-in, first-out basis and valued at the lower of cost or market with any excess cost recognized during the period within cost of product sales. At August 31, 2013, all seed inventory other than work-in-process was fully written off based on the lower of cost or market, based on on the Company's evaluation of such inventory.

Income Taxes

'

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is provided for the amount of deferred tax assets that, based on available evidence, are not expected to be realized.

The Company accounts for unrecognized tax benefits also in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes, which prescribes a minimum probability threshold that a tax position must meet before a financial statement benefit is recognized. The minimum threshold is defined as a tax position that is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution to any related appeals or litigation, based solely on the technical merits of the position. The Company has no accrual for interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions at August 31, 2013 and 2012, and did not recognize interest or penalties in the Statements of Operations during the years ended August 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

The major jurisdictions in which the Company files income tax returns include the federal and state jurisdictions within the United States and Brazil, where it has a subsidiary. The tax years after 2008 remain open to examination by federal and state taxing jurisdictions and the tax years after 2010 remain open to examination by foreign jurisdictions. However, the Company has NOLs beginning in 1998 which would cause the statute of limitations to remain open for the year in which the NOL was incurred.

Foreign Currency Translation

'

Foreign Currency Translation

The Brazilian real is the functional currency of the Company's subsidiary in Brazil. Accordingly, assets and liabilities of those operations are translated into United States dollars using the current exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date and equity accounts are translated into United States dollars using historical rates. Revenues and expenses are translated at the weighted average rate of exchange during the reporting period. Gains and losses from foreign currency translation adjustments are represented as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

'

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The Company's unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities and foreign currency translation adjustments represents the components of comprehensive income (income) and have been disclosed in the consolidated statements of stockholders' equity (deficit).

The following summarizes the changes in the balances of each component of accumulated comprehensive income (loss) during the years presented:

Accumulated

Foreign

Unrealized

Other

Currency

Gains (Losses)

Comprehensive

Translation

on Securities

Loss

Balance at August 31, 2011

$

(27

)

$

-

$

(27

)

Comprehensive (loss) gain

(262

)

6

(256

)

Balance at August 31, 2012

(289

)

6

(283

)

Comprehensive loss

(395

)

(18

)

(413

)

Balance at August 31, 2013

$

(684

)

$

(12

)

$

(696

)

Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share

'

Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares and dilutive potential common share equivalents then outstanding, to the extent they are dilutive. Potential common shares consist of shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants (using the treasury stock method), and the weighted average conversion of the convertible preferred stock into shares of common stock (using the if-converted method). Dilutive net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share for all periods presented because the effects of potentially dilutive items were anti-dilutive.

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per common share:

Year Ended

August 31,

2013

2012

2011

Net loss

$

(32,511

)

$

(29,410

)

$

(36,336

)

Basic and diluted net loss per common share

$

(1.31

)

$

(2.18

)

$

(18.34

)

Basic and diluted weighted average outstanding common shares used for net loss

24,796,030

13,488,336

1,981,627

The following potentially dilutive, common share equivalents were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per common share because their effect was anti-dilutive for each of the periods presented:

Year Ended

August 31,

2013

2012

2011

Options to purchase common stock

2,791,556

2,778,508

2,597,285

Warrants to purchase common stock

2,082,045

2,082,045

1,994,868

Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock

-

-

20,511

Convertible preferred stock

-

-

15,353,226

Convertible notes

-

-

1,171,818

Total

4,873,601

4,860,553

21,137,708

Segment and geographic information

'

Segment and geographic information

Management has determined that it has one business activity and operates in one segment as it only reports financial information on an aggregate and consolidated basis to its Chief Executive Officer, who is the Company's chief operating decision maker. Geographic information regarding the Company's operations outside of North America is not significant for any period presented.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

'

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. ASU 2013-02 finalizes the requirements of ASU 2011-05 that ASU 2011-12 deferred, clarifying how to report the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. ASU 2013-02 is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012 and is to be applied prospectively. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of this ASU will materially change the presentation of its consolidated financial statements.

In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit as a reduction of a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss (NOL) carryforward, or similar tax loss or tax credit carryforward, rather than as a liability when: (1) the uncertain tax position would reduce the NOL or other carryforward under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction, and (2) the entity intends to use the deferred tax asset for that purpose. ASU 2013-11 changes existing presentation requirements but does not require new recurring disclosures and is effective for fiscal years, and the interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of this ASU will materially change the presentation of its consolidated financial statements.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	'
	The following tables present the Company's financial assets that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of August 31, 2013 and 2012 by level within the fair value hierarchy:
			August 31, 2013
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Financial Assets
	Money market funds		$	2,310		$	-		$	-		$	2,310
	Certificates of deposit - available for sale			-			4,555			-			4,555
	Commercial paper - available for sale			-			2,198			-			2,198
	Corporate bonds - available for sale			-			16,076			-			16,076
	Total		$	2,310		$	22,829		$	-		$	25,139
	All of the money market funds and $1,199 of the commercial paper are included in cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.
			August 31, 2012
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Financial Assets
	Money market funds		$	16,769		$	-		$	-		$	16,769
	Commercial paper - available for sale			-			10,187			-			10,187
	Corporate bonds - available for sale			-			29,098			-			29,098
	Total		$	16,769		$	39,285		$	-		$	56,054
	All of the money market funds are included in cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.
Schedule of Customers Representing Greater than Ten Percent of Accounts Receivable	'
	Customers representing greater than 10% of accounts receivable were as follows (in percentages):
			As of
			August 31,
	Customers		2013			2012
	Customer A			37.3			47.9
	Customer B			23.1			*
	Customer D			**			13.6
	Customer E			*			15.2
	Customer F			21.8			**
		*	Less than 10%
		**	No balance
Schedule of Customers Representing Greater than Ten Percent of Revenue	'
	Customers representing greater than 10% of revenues were as follows (in percentages):
			Year Ended August 31,
	Customers		2013			2012			2011
	Customer A			21.2			24.7			20.5
	Customer B			20.2			16.8			16.6
	Customer C			**			*			20.9
	Customer D			14.5			17.4			25.4
	Customer F			22.5			14			*
		*	Less than 10%
		**	No revenue
Schedule of Depreciation Period for Property and Equipment	'
	Depreciation periods for the Company's property and equipment are as follows:
	Automobiles and trucks	3-5 years
	Office, laboratory, farm and warehouse equipment and furniture	3-5 years
	Leasehold improvements	3-10 years
	Buildings	14-39 years
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The following summarizes the changes in the balances of each component of accumulated comprehensive income (loss) during the years presented:
									Accumulated
			Foreign			Unrealized			Other
			Currency			Gains (Losses)			Comprehensive
			Translation			on Securities			Loss
	Balance at August 31, 2011		$	(27	)	$	-		$	(27	)
	Comprehensive (loss) gain			(262	)		6			(256	)
	Balance at August 31, 2012			(289	)		6			(283	)
	Comprehensive loss			(395	)		(18	)		(413	)
	Balance at August 31, 2013		$	(684	)	$	(12	)	$	(696	)
Summary of Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Common Share	'
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per common share:
			Year Ended
			August 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Net loss		$	(32,511	)	$	(29,410	)	$	(36,336	)
	Basic and diluted net loss per common share		$	(1.31	)	$	(2.18	)	$	(18.34	)
	Basic and diluted weighted average outstanding common shares used for net loss			24,796,030			13,488,336			1,981,627
Schedule of Potentially Dilutive, Common Share Equivalents Excluded from Calculation of Diluted Net Loss Per Common Share	'
	The following potentially dilutive, common share equivalents were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per common share because their effect was anti-dilutive for each of the periods presented:
			Year Ended
			August 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Options to purchase common stock			2,791,556			2,778,508			2,597,285
	Warrants to purchase common stock			2,082,045			2,082,045			1,994,868
	Warrants to purchase convertible preferred stock			-			-			20,511
	Convertible preferred stock			-			-			15,353,226
	Convertible notes			-			-			1,171,818
	Total			4,873,601			4,860,553			21,137,708

Marketable_Securities_Tables

Marketable Securities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Marketable Securities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities	'
	Marketable securities classified as available for sale consisted of the following:
		August 31, 2013
				Gross		Gross
		Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized
	Available for sale securities	Cost		Gain		Loss			Fair Value
	Certificates of Deposit	$	4,561	$	-	$	(6	)	$	4,555
	Commercial Paper		2,199		-		(1	)		2,198
	Corporate Bonds		16,081		2		(7	)		16,076
	Total	$	22,841	$	2	$	(14	)	$	22,829
	$1,199 of the commercial paper is included in the cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets.
		August 31, 2012
				Gross		Gross
		Amortized		Unrealized		Unrealized
	Available for sale securities	Cost		Gain		Loss			Fair Value
	Commercial Paper	$	10,187	$	2	$	(2	)	$	10,187
	Corporate Bonds		29,092		17		(11	)		29,098
	Total	$	39,279	$	19	$	(13	)	$	39,285
Summary of Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Marketable Securities, Classified by Stated Maturity	'
	The following tables summarize the amortized cost and fair value of the Company's marketable securities, classified by stated maturity as of August 31, 2013 and 2012:
		August 31, 2013
		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
	Marketable securities
	Due in 1 year or less	$	22,841	$	22,829
	Due in 1 - 2 years		-		-
		$	22,841	$	22,829
		31-Aug-12
		Amortized
		Cost		Fair Value
	Marketable securities
	Due in 1 year or less	$	33,567	$	33,565
	Due in 1 - 2 years		5,712		5,720
		$	39,279	$	39,285

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Inventories [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventories	'
	Inventories consisted of the following:
		August 31,		August 31,
		2013		2012
	Work in process	$	20	$	264
	Seed inventory		-		577
	Total inventories	$	20	$	841

Property_and_Equipment_Tables

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Property and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Summary of Property and Equipment	'
	Property and equipment are summarized as follows:
		As of
		August 31,
		2013			2012
	Land	$	43		$	43
	Automobiles and trucks		796			728
	Buildings		3,180			3,252
	Office, laboratory, farm and warehouse equipment and furniture		14,792			15,552
	Leasehold improvements		5,716			5,709
			24,527			25,284
	Less accumulated depreciation		(19,894	)		(19,528	)
	Property and equipment, net	$	4,633		$	5,756

Accounts_Payable_and_Accrued_E1

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	'
	Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following:
		As of
		August 31,
		2013		2012
	Accounts payable	$	1,289	$	1,865
	Accrued payroll and related expenses		1,020		2,530
	Research and development contracts		1,098		686
	Accrued grower commitments		38		76
	Other		380		319
		$	3,825	$	5,476

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'
Summary of Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-term debt is summarized as follows:
		As of
		August 31,
		2013			2012
	Capital Leases	$	236		S	390
			236			390
	Less current portion		(154	)		(134	)
		$	82		$	256
Schedule of Aggregated Maturities of Debt	'
	The aggregated maturities of debt as of August 31, 2013 are as follows:
	2014	$	154
	2015		73
	2016		9
		$	236

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Fair Value of Employee Stock Options Estimated Using Weighted Average Assumptions	'
	The fair value of employee stock options was estimated using the following weighted-average assumptions:
		Year ended
		August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected term (in years)		5.50-6.08			5.50-6.46			6.08-6.46
	Expected volatility		87%-88	%		78%-81	%		70%-78	%
	Risk free interest rate		0.82%-1.96	%		0.88%-1.35	%		1.48%-2.44	%
	Expected dividend yield		0	%		0	%		0	%
	Expected Term -  Because of limited employee share option exercises, the Company uses a simplified method in which the expected term of an award is presumed to be mid-point between the vesting date and the expiration date of the award. The expected term for all employee option grants is an average of 3.06 years.
	Expected Volatility -  The Company estimates the volatility of its common stock by using the historical volatility of a group of comparable companies over the option's expected term. The decision to use historical volatility of comparable companies was based upon the fact there is limited history of trading activity of the Company's common stock.
	Risk-Free Interest Rate -  The Company bases the risk-free interest rate used in the option valuation model on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with remaining terms similar to the expected term on the options.
	Expected Dividend Yield -  The Company does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
Summary of Stock-Based Compensation Costs Included in Operating Expenses and Total Intrinsic Value of Options Exercised	'
	Stock-based compensation expense included in operating expenses and total intrinsic value of stock options exercised are as follows:
		Year ended
		August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Stock-based compensation costs for employee stock options	$	3,624		$	2,464		$	1,478
	Fair value changes of collaboration warrants		(314	)		(555	)		1,232
	Total stock-based compensation costs included in operating expenses	$	3,310		$	1,909		$	2,710
	Intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$	79		$	3,573		$	632
Summary of Stock Option Transactions under Option Plans	'
	The following summarizes the stock option transactions under the Equity Plans during the periods presented:
					Weighted
					Average
		Shares			Exercise Price
	Options outstanding at August 31, 2011		2,597,285		$	6.06
	Options granted		623,645			12.77
	Options exercised		(298,282	)		2.11
	Options forfeited		(144,140	)		7.34
	Options outstanding at August 31, 2012		2,778,508			7.92
	Options granted		315,064			3.63
	Options exercised		(23,832	)		2.36
	Options forfeited		(278,184	)		7.87
	Options outstanding at August 31, 2013		2,791,556		$	7.49
Summary of Information about Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable	'
	The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at August 31, 2013:
					Average								Average
					Remaining			Weighted-			Number		Remaining		Weighted-
	Range of	Number			Contractual			Average			Vested and		Contractual		Average
	Exercise Price	Outstanding			Life			Exercise Price			Exercisable		Life		Exercise Price
	$1.95		415,331			2.26		$	1.95			415,331		2.26	$	1.95
	$3.90 - $4.05		301,492			2.5			3.91			301,492		2.5		3.91
	$6.75		808,211			5.29			6.75			761,705		5.2		6.75
	$7.32		192,940			7.29			7.32			127,585		7.29		7.32
	$16.77		160,536			7.78			16.77			72,990		7.76		16.77
	$17.16		79,028			7.88			17.16			33,951		7.88		17.16
	$12.71		36,442			8.29			12.71			12,454		8.22		12.71
	$12.10		46,664			8.49			12.1			46,664		8.49		12.1
	$13.00		444,817			8.49			13			-		-		-
	$8.97		750			8.8			8.97			225		8.8		8.97
	$6.66		11,666			8.98			6.66			-		-		-
	$3.60 - $7.70		25,350			9.03			5.7			12,300		8.86		7.7
	$3.94		24,000			9.25			3.94			-		-		-
	$3.32		64,163			9.42			3.32			-		-		-
	$3.49		1,500			9.44			3.49			-		-		-
	$1.40 - $3.30		178,666			9.81			3.18			-		-		-
			2,791,556									1,784,697
Summary of Restricted Stock Transactions under Option Plans	'
	The following summarizes the restricted stock transactions under the Equity Plans for the periods presented:
					Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date
		Shares			Fair Value
	Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at August 31, 2011		833		$	6.51
	Restricted stock granted		45,100			12.16
	Restricted stock vested		(833	)		6.51
	Restricted stock forfeited		(4,500	)		12.71
	Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at August 31, 2012		40,600			12.1
	Restricted stock granted		288,375			5.24
	Restricted stock vested		(19,100	)		11.42
	Restricted stock forfeited		(19,175	)		8.81
	Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at August 31, 2013		290,700		$	5.55

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Attributable to Income (Loss) before Income Taxes	'
	Income tax expense (benefit) attributable to loss before income taxes consisted of the following:
		Current			Deferred			Total
	Year ended August 31, 2013
	U.S. federal	$	-		$	-		$	-
	State and local		1			-			1
		$	1		$	-		$	1
		Current			Deferred			Total
	Year ended August 31, 2012
	U.S. federal	$	-		$	-		$	-
	State and local		3			-			3
		$	3		$	-		$	3
		Current			Deferred			Total
	Year ended August 31, 2011
	U.S. federal	$	(30	)	$	-		$	(30	)
	State and local		(1	)		-			(1	)
		$	(31	)	$	-		$	(31	)
Schedule of Income Tax Expense Differs from Amount Computed by Applying Federal Income Tax Rate	'
	Income tax expense differs from the amount computed by applying the federal corporate income tax rate of 34% to the loss before income taxes due to the following:
		Year Ended			Year Ended			Year Ended
		August 31,			August 31,			August 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Computed "expected" tax expense (benefit)	$	(11,054	)	$	(9,999	)	$	(12,365	)
	Increase (reduction) in income taxes resulting from:
	Stock-based compensation		876			636			893
	State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		1			2			(1	)
	Foreign rate differential		-			1,258			512
	Convertible note changes and change in fair value		-			-			750
	Warrants modification and changes in fair value		-			29			2,997
	Other		17			182			7
	Change in valuation allowance		10,161			7,895			7,176
	Income tax expense (benefit)	$	1		$	3		$	(31	)
Summary of Tax Effects of Temporary Differences that Give Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	The following table summarizes the tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities at each period end:
		August 31,			August 31,
		2013			2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Accrued liabilities	$	163		$	799
	Other assets		77			17
	Inventory capitalization		265			145
	Deferred revenue		-			275
	Total current deferred tax assets		505			1,236
	Noncurrent assets:
	Depreciation		2,150			2,044
	Inventory reserves		2,427			2,328
	Deferred rent		36			27
	Other assets		568			301
	Net operating loss carryforward		88,791			74,412
	Federal and state tax credit carryforward		8,919			8,919
	Total noncurrent deferred tax assets		102,891			88,031
	Total deferred tax assets		103,396			89,267
	Less valuation allowance		(103,396	)		(89,267	)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	-		$	-

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Future Minimum Payments under Noncancelable Operating Leases	'
	Future minimum payments under noncancelable operating leases as of August 31, 2013 are as follows:
		Operating
		leases
	2014	$	595
	2015		548
	2016		550
	2017		559
	2018		575
	Thereafter		688
	Total minimum lease payments	$	3,515

Research_Collaboration_Agreeme1

Research Collaboration Agreements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Research Collaboration Agreements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Future Minimum Payments under Company's Research Collaboration	'
	At August 31, 2013, the future minimum payments under the Company's research collaboration agreements are as follows:
	2014	$	3,041
	2015		2,977
	2016		2,966
	2017		613
		$	9,597

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_I1

Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) [Abstract]	'
Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations	'
	The following is a summary of the unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended August 31, 2013 and 2012
		November 30,			February 29,			May 31,			August 31,
		2012			2013			2013			2013
	2013:00:00
	Net sales	$	1,966		$	1,026		$	1,355		$	898
	Cost of revenues		700			2,280			2,134			1,132
	Operating loss		(6,921	)		(9,014	)		(9,317	)		(7,339	)
	Net loss		(6,894	)		(8,966	)		(9,323	)		(7,331	)
	Basic and diluted net loss per  share		(0.28	)		(0.36	)		(0.38	)		(0.29	)
		November 30,			February 29,			May 31,			August 31,
		2011			2012			2012			2012
	2012:00:00
	Net sales	$	1,748		$	1,311		$	1,148		$	1,164
	Cost of revenues		763			487			627			507
	Operating loss		(7,094	)		(6,980	)		(8,078	)		(6,650	)
	Net loss		(7,540	)		(6,831	)		(8,416	)		(6,623	)
	Basic and diluted net loss per  share		(3.73	)		(2.48	)		(0.34	)		(0.27	)

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

13 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

13 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Feb. 27, 2012

Jan. 24, 2012

Aug. 31, 2013

31-May-13

Feb. 28, 2013

Nov. 30, 2012

Aug. 31, 2012

31-May-12

Feb. 29, 2012

Nov. 30, 2011

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 27, 2012

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Nov. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 20, 2007

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Dec. 16, 2008

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Jan. 31, 2010

Aug. 31, 2012

Nov. 30, 2013

Rate

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Development and License Agreement [Member]

Development and License Agreement [Member]

Development and License Agreement [Member]

Development and License Agreement [Member]

Development and License Agreement [Member]

Development and License Agreement [Member]

Several Agreements [Member]

Several Agreements [Member]

Several Agreements [Member]

Software License and Collaboration Agreement [Member]

Software License and Collaboration Agreement [Member]

Software License and Collaboration Agreement [Member]

Software License and Collaboration Agreement [Member]

Ceres Sementes do Brasil Ltda [Member]

Buildings [Member]

Buildings [Member]

Accounting Policies [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of ownership

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

99.90%

'

'

Reverse stock split ratio

'

0.3333

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share issued in initial public offering

5,750,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Underwriters exercise of public offering over-allotment, shares

750,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

IPO price, per share

$13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from issuance shares under initial public offering

$65,158

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$65,158

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion of Convertible Securities, shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,098,575

15,353,221

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion of preferred stock warrants to purchase common stock

20,511

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net loss

'

'

-7,331

-9,323

-8,966

-6,894

-6,623

-8,416

-6,831

-7,540

-32,511

-29,410

-36,336

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accumulated deficit

'

'

-274,584

'

'

'

-242,073

'

'

'

-274,584

-242,073

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash equivalents

'

'

8,881

'

'

'

16,769

'

'

'

8,881

16,769

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property repair cost

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

150

Impairment of long lived assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,026

'

Proceeds from insurance to cover repair costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000

'

Gain on termination

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

550

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Collaborative research and government grants

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,781

4,939

6,500

'

'

758

933

1,683

'

'

'

2,355

2,416

3,120

'

1,180

750

243

'

'

'

Proceeds from license fee and milestone payments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,500

7,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

License agreement term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'6 years

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Grants receivable

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,288

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expected receivables from collaborative agreement

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

Receivables from agreement payment term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'4 years 6 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	$22,829	$39,285
Cash and cash equivalents [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Commercial paper	1,199	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total	25,139	56,054
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Money market funds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Money market funds	2,310	16,769
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	4,555	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	2,198	10,187
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate bonds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	16,076	29,098
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total	2,310	16,769
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Money market funds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Money market funds	2,310	16,769
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Corporate bonds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total	22,829	39,285
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Money market funds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	4,555	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	2,198	10,187
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate bonds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	16,076	29,098
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Total	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Money market funds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	'	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Corporate bonds [Member]	'	'
Financial Instruments Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available for sale	'	'

Summary_of_Significant_Account5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Customers Representing Greater than Ten Percent of Accounts Receivable) (Details) (Accounts receivables [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013		Aug. 31, 2012
Customer A [Member]	'		'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	37.30%		47.90%
Customer B [Member]	'		'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	23.10%		'	[1]
Customer D [Member]	'		'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	'	[2]	13.60%
Customer E [Member]	'		'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	'	[1]	15.20%
Customer F [Member]	'		'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	21.80%		'	[2]
[1]	* Less than 10%
[2]	** No balance

Summary_of_Significant_Account6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Customers Representing Greater than Ten Percent of Revenues) (Details) (Revenues [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013		Aug. 31, 2012		Aug. 31, 2011
Customer A [Member]	'		'		'
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]	'		'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	21.20%		24.70%		20.50%
Customer B [Member]	'		'		'
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]	'		'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	20.20%		16.80%		16.60%
Customer C [Member]	'		'		'
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]	'		'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	'	[1]	'	[2]	20.90%
Customer D [Member]	'		'		'
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]	'		'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	14.50%		17.40%		25.40%
Customer F [Member]	'		'		'
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]	'		'		'
Concentration risk, percentage	22.50%		14.00%		'	[2]
[1]	** No revenue
[2]	* Less than 10%

Summary_of_Significant_Account7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Depreciation Periods for Property and Equipment) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Automobiles and Trucks [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'3 years
Automobiles and Trucks [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'5 years
Office, Laboratory, Farm and Warehouse Equipment and Furniture [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'3 years
Office, Laboratory, Farm and Warehouse Equipment and Furniture [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'5 years
Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'3 years
Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'10 years
Buildings [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'14 years
Buildings [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property plant and equipment useful life	'39 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account8

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Summary of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Balance	($283)	($27)
Comprehensive (loss) gain	-413	-256
Balance	-696	-283
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Balance	-289	-27
Comprehensive (loss) gain	-395	-262
Balance	-684	-289
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Securities [Member]	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Balance	6	'
Comprehensive (loss) gain	-18	6
Balance	($12)	$6

Summary_of_Significant_Account9

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Summary of Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Common Share) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Nov. 30, 2012	Aug. 31, 2012	31-May-12	Feb. 29, 2012	Nov. 30, 2011	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net loss	($7,331)	($9,323)	($8,966)	($6,894)	($6,623)	($8,416)	($6,831)	($7,540)	($32,511)	($29,410)	($36,336)
Basic and diluted net loss per common share	($0.29)	($0.38)	($0.36)	($0.28)	($0.27)	($0.34)	($2.48)	($3.73)	($1.31)	($2.18)	($18.34)
Basic and diluted weighted average outstanding common shares used for net loss	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	24,796,030	13,488,336	1,981,627

Recovered_Sheet1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Potentially Dilutive, Common Share Equivalents Excluded from Calculation of Diluted Net Loss Per Common Share) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	4,873,601	4,860,553	21,137,708
Stock Options [Member]	'	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	2,791,556	2,778,508	2,597,285
Common Stock Warrants [Member]	'	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	2,082,045	2,082,045	1,994,868
Convertible Preferred Stock Warrants [Member]	'	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	'	'	20,511
Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]	'	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	'	'	15,353,226
Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]	'	'	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'	'
Potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	'	'	1,171,818

Marketable_Securities_Schedule

Marketable Securities (Schedule of Available for Sale Securities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	$22,841	$39,279
Gross Unrealized Gain	2	19
Gross Unrealized Loss	-14	-13
Fair Value	22,829	39,285
Cash and cash equivalents [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Commercial paper	1,199	'
Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	4,561	'
Gross Unrealized Gain	'	'
Gross Unrealized Loss	-6	'
Fair Value	4,555	'
Commercial Paper [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	2,199	10,187
Gross Unrealized Gain	'	2
Gross Unrealized Loss	-1	-2
Fair Value	2,198	10,187
Corporate Bonds [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	16,081	29,092
Gross Unrealized Gain	2	17
Gross Unrealized Loss	-7	-11
Fair Value	$16,076	$29,098

Marketable_Securities_Summary_

Marketable Securities (Summary of Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Marketable Securities, Classified by Stated Maturity) (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Marketable securities, amortized cost	'	'
Due in 1 year or less	$22,841	$33,567
Due in 1 - 2 years	'	5,712
Marketable Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost, Total	22,841	39,279
Marketable securities, fair value	'	'
Due in 1 year or less	22,829	33,565
Due in 1 - 2 years	'	5,720
Marketable Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Total	$22,829	$39,285

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventories [Abstract]	'	'
Work in process	$20	$264
Seed inventory	'	577
Total inventories	$20	$841

Property_and_Equipment_Details

Property and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property plant and equipment gross	$24,527	$25,284
Less accumulated depreciation	-19,894	-19,528
Property and equipment, net	4,633	5,756
Land [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property plant and equipment gross	43	43
Automobiles and Trucks [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property plant and equipment gross	796	728
Buildings [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property plant and equipment gross	3,180	3,252
Office, Laboratory, Farm and Warehouse Equipment and Furniture [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property plant and equipment gross	14,792	15,552
Leasehold Improvements [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property plant and equipment gross	$5,716	$5,709

Accounts_Payable_and_Accrued_E2

Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses [Abstract]	'	'
Accounts payable	$1,289	$1,865
Accrued payroll and related expenses	1,020	2,530
Research and development contracts	1,098	686
Accrued grower commitments	38	76
Other	380	319
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	$3,825	$5,476

LongTerm_Debt_Summary_of_LongT

Long-Term Debt (Summary of Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt	$236	$390
Less current portion	-154	-134
Long-term debt, net of current portion	82	256
Capital Leases [Member]	'	'
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt	$236	$390

LongTerm_Debt_Summary_of_Aggre

Long-Term Debt (Summary of Aggregated Maturities of Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long-Term Debt [Abstract]	'	'
2014	$154	'
2015	73	'
2016	9	'
Long-term Debt	$236	$390

StockBased_Compensation_Narrat

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Sep. 30, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Jun. 30, 2013

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Restricted Stock [Member]

Stock Option [Member]

Stock Option [Member]

Ceres, Inc. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan [Member]

Ceres, Inc. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan [Member]

Weighted Average [Member]

Weighted Average [Member]

Weighted Average [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Modification of options to purchase shares of common stock

403,333

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Modification charge

$157

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based compensation, shares reserved for issuance

'

'

6,754,999

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based compensation, increase in shares reserved for issuance

'

'

1,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based compensation, shares available for future grant

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,916,292

'

'

'

Common stock granted during period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

60,000

'

'

'

'

Weighted average grant date fair value of options

'

$8.16

$2.64

$10.40

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average grant date fair value of common stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$3.33

'

$3.63

$14.44

$11.97

Tax benefit realized from options exercised

'

'

'

32

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrecognized stock compensation expense

'

'

'

'

1,064

5,389

8,189

'

'

'

'

'

Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, weighted average period of recognition

'

'

'

'

'2 years 1 month 2 days

'3 years 22 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock grant expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$200

'

'

'

StockBased_Compensation_Fair_V

Stock-Based Compensation (Fair Value of Employee Stock Options Estimated Using Weighted Average Assumptions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expected dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expected term (in years)	'5 years 6 months	'5 years 6 months	'6 years 0 months 29 days
Expected volatility	87.00%	78.00%	70.00%
Risk free interest rate	0.82%	0.88%	1.48%
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expected term (in years)	'6 years 29 days	'6 years 5 months 16 days	'6 years 5 months 16 days
Expected volatility	88.00%	81.00%	78.00%
Risk free interest rate	1.96%	1.35%	2.44%

StockBased_Compensation_StockB

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock-Based Compensation Costs Included in Operating Expenses and Total Intrinsic Value of Options Exercised) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation costs	$3,310	$1,909	$2,710
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised	79	3,573	632
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation costs	3,624	2,464	1,478
Collaboration warrants [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation costs	($314)	($555)	$1,232

StockBased_Compensation_Summar

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of Stock Option Transactions under Option Plans) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Shares	'	'
Options outstanding	2,778,508	2,597,285
Options granted	315,064	623,645
Options exercised	-23,832	-298,282
Options forfeited	-278,184	-144,140
Options outstanding	2,791,556	2,778,508
Weighted Average Exercise Price	'	'
Options outstanding	$7.92	$6.06
Options granted	$3.63	$12.77
Options exercised	$2.36	$2.11
Options forfeited	$7.87	$7.34
Options outstanding	$7.49	$7.92

StockBased_Compensation_Summar1

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of Information about Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Number Outstanding	2,791,556
Number Vested and Exercisable	1,784,697
Exercise Price 1 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$1.95
Number Outstanding	415,331
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'2 years 3 months 4 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$1.95
Number Vested and Exercisable	415,331
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'2 years 3 months 4 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$1.95
Exercise Price 2 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Number Outstanding	301,492
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'2 years 6 months
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$3.91
Number Vested and Exercisable	301,492
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'2 years 6 months
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$3.91
Exercise Price 2 [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$3.90
Exercise Price 2 [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$4.05
Exercise Price 3 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$6.75
Number Outstanding	808,211
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'5 years 3 months 15 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$6.75
Number Vested and Exercisable	761,705
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'5 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$6.75
Exercise Price 4 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$7.32
Number Outstanding	192,940
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 3 months 15 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$7.32
Number Vested and Exercisable	127,585
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 3 months 15 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$7.32
Exercise Price 5 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$16.77
Number Outstanding	160,536
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 9 months 11 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$16.77
Number Vested and Exercisable	72,990
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 9 months 4 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$16.77
Exercise Price 6 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$17.16
Number Outstanding	79,028
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 10 months 17 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$17.16
Number Vested and Exercisable	33,951
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 10 months 17 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$17.16
Exercise Price 7 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$12.71
Number Outstanding	36,442
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 3 months 15 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$12.71
Number Vested and Exercisable	12,454
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 2 months 19 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$12.71
Exercise Price 8 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$12.10
Number Outstanding	46,664
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 5 months 27 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$12.10
Number Vested and Exercisable	46,664
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 5 months 27 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$12.10
Exercise Price 9 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$13
Number Outstanding	444,817
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 5 months 27 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$13
Number Vested and Exercisable	'
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'
Exercise Price 10 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$8.97
Number Outstanding	750
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$8.97
Number Vested and Exercisable	225
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$8.97
Exercise Price 11 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$6.66
Number Outstanding	11,666
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 11 months 23 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$6.66
Number Vested and Exercisable	'
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'
Exercise Price 12 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Number Outstanding	25,350
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'9 years 11 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$5.70
Number Vested and Exercisable	12,300
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 10 months 10 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$7.70
Exercise Price 12 [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$3.60
Exercise Price 12 [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$7.70
Exercise Price 13 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$3.94
Number Outstanding	24,000
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'9 years 3 months
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$3.94
Number Vested and Exercisable	'
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'
Exercise Price 14 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$3.32
Number Outstanding	64,163
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'9 years 5 months 1 day
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$3.32
Number Vested and Exercisable	'
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'
Exercise Price 15 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$3.49
Number Outstanding	1,500
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'9 years 5 months 9 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$3.49
Number Vested and Exercisable	'
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'
Exercise Price 16 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Number Outstanding	178,666
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'9 years 9 months 22 days
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$3.18
Number Vested and Exercisable	'
Average Remaining Contractual Life	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'
Exercise Price 16 [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$1.40
Exercise Price 16 [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Price	$3.30

StockBased_Compensation_Summar2

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of Restricted Stock Transactions under Option Plans) (Details) (Restricted Stock [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Restricted Stock [Member]	'	'
Shares	'	'
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested	40,600	833
Restricted stock granted	288,375	45,100
Restricted stock vested	-19,100	-833
Restricted stock forfeited	-19,175	-4,500
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested	290,700	40,600
Weighted Average Exercise Price	'	'
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested	$12.10	$6.51
Restricted stock granted	$5.24	$12.16
Restricted stock vested	$11.42	$6.51
Restricted stock forfeited	$8.81	$12.71
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested	$5.55	$12.10

Convertible_Notes_and_Warrant_1

Convertible Notes and Warrant Modification (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended						1 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Feb. 27, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2011	Feb. 27, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
					Modified F Warrants [Member]	Non-Modified F Warrants [Member]	Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]	Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issue of convertible subordinate notes	'	'	$11,425	'	'	'	'	$11,425
Conversion of debt into common stock, percentage of discount to the IPO price	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	20.00%
Conversion of debt into common stock price per share	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$10.40
Percentage of capital stock and affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5.00%
Warrant issued to purchase stock	'	'	'	'	539,972	229,257	'	'
Charge for modification of liability classified warrants	'	'	9,633	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of convertible notes	$13,630	'	'	$14,282	'	'	'	'
Conversion of Convertible Securities, shares	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,098,575	'

Stockholders_Equity_Details

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

Feb. 27, 2012

Aug. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 27, 2012

Sep. 30, 2007

Aug. 31, 2011

Aug. 31, 2011

Feb. 27, 2012

Jun. 30, 2010

Jun. 30, 2011

31-May-06

Aug. 31, 2013

Jun. 30, 2011

31-May-06

Jun. 30, 2011

31-May-06

31-May-06

31-May-06

Aug. 31, 2007

Aug. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Aug. 31, 2013

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 27, 2012

Jul. 31, 2004

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 28, 2010

Feb. 27, 2012

Feb. 27, 2012

Convertible Subordinated Note [Member]

Series F Convertible Preferred Stock Warrants [Member]

Series F Convertible Preferred Stock Warrants [Member]

Non-Modified F Warrants [Member]

Modified F Warrants [Member]

Series G Convertible Preferred Stock Warrants [Member]

Series G Convertible Preferred Stock Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]

Texas A and M University System Agreement Warrants [Member]

Texas A and M University System Agreement Warrants [Member]

Texas A and M University System Agreement Warrants [Member]

Texas A and M University System Agreement Warrants [Member]

Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]

Series E Preferred Stock [Member]

Series E Preferred Stock [Member]

Series E Preferred Stock [Member]

Series E Preferred Stock [Member]

Series F Preferred Stock [Member]

Series F Preferred Stock [Member]

Series F Preferred Stock [Member]

Series F Preferred Stock [Member]

Period 1 [Member]

Period 1 [Member]

Period 2 [Member]

Period 2 [Member]

Period 3 [Member]

Period 4 [Member]

Sponsored Research and Intellectual Property Rights Agreement [Member]

Sponsored Research and Intellectual Property Rights Agreement [Member]

Ip Rights Agreement [Member]

Ip Rights Agreement [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Borrowing and Loan Agreements Warrants [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Stockholders Equity Note Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

IPO price, per share

$13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$19.50

'

'

'

$19.50

'

'

'

Conversion of Convertible Securities, shares

'

'

'

'

1,098,575

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15,353,221

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion of preferred stock warrants to purchase common stock

20,511

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,153

'

'

'

14,358

'

'

'

Common Stock, shares authorized

'

490,000,000

490,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Preferred stock, shares authorized

'

10,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warrant issued to purchase stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

769,229

229,257

539,972

'

1,025,640

'

133,333

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

66,666

'

66,666

'

'

'

18,461

'

'

'

43,076

'

'

Exercise price of warrants issued

'

'

'

'

'

'

19.5

'

'

'

19.5

'

30

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

30

'

14.3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated fair value of warrants

'

'

'

'

'

$6,301,000

'

'

'

$10,633,000

'

'

'

$1,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$2,400

'

$49,700

'

$68,000

'

'

'

$158,000

'

'

'

Estimated fair value of warrants, risk free rate

'

'

'

'

'

0.40%

'

'

'

1.64%

'

'

'

1.21%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.19%

'

2.78%

'

1.35%

'

'

'

1.35%

'

'

'

Estimated fair value of warrants, volatility rate

'

'

'

'

'

89.00%

'

'

'

73.00%

'

'

'

73.30%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

73.30%

'

78.90%

'

81.00%

'

'

'

81.00%

'

'

'

Estimated fair value of warrants, expected term

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years 6 months

'

'

'

'8 years 3 months 18 days

'

'

'

'3 years 8 months 19 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years 11 months 27 days

'

'13 years 22 days

'

'

'

'7 years 11 months 16 days

'8 years 4 days

'

'

'7 years 11 months 16 days

'8 years 4 days

Estimated fair value of warrants, dividend Yield rate

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

'

'

'

0.00%

'

'

'

0.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

'

0.00%

'

0.00%

'

'

'

0.00%

'

'

'

Warrant issued, number of shares vesting in equal installments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

33,333

33,333

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Class of warrant or right number of shares vesting in equal installments, date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

19-May-13

19-May-09

19-May-15

19-May-11

19-May-13

19-May-15

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warrant issued, earliest exercisable period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'2 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Change in value of warrants recognized as research and development expense

'

$16,401,000

$19,155,000

$19,014,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$625,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$2,000

'

$10,900

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warrant issued, vested

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

99,999

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warrant issued, expiration date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18-May-17

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

28-Aug-17

'

24-Sep-26

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Expens

Income Taxes (Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Attributable to Income (Loss) before Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Current Income Tax Expense Benefit	'	'	'
U.S. federal	'	'	($30)
State and local	1	3	-1
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	1	3	-31
Deferred Income Tax Expense	'	'	'
U.S. federal	'	'	'
State and local	'	'	'
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total	'	'	'
Income Tax Expense Benefit	'	'	'
U.S. federal	'	'	-30
State and local	1	3	-1
Income tax expense (benefit)	$1	$3	($31)

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Federal income tax rate	34.00%	'
Excess tax benefits associated with the exercise of non-qualified stock options, restricted stock grants, and disqualifying dispositions of incentive stock option stock	$2,458	$2,367
Valuation allowance	103,396	89,267
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards	223,205	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Research Tax Credit Carryforward [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Tax credit carryforwards	8,907	'
Tax credit carryforwards, expiration date	'2029	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration date	'2018	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration date	'2033	'
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards	152,667	'
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Alternative Minimum Tax [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Tax credit carryforwards	17	'
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration date	'2014	'
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration date	'2033	'
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]	'	'
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'
Net operating loss carryforwards	$14,625	'

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Expens1

Income Taxes (Income Tax Expense Differs from Amount Computed by Applying Federal Income Tax Rate) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'	'
Computed "expected" tax expense (benefit)	($11,054)	($9,999)	($12,365)
Stock-based compensation	876	636	893
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	1	2	-1
Foreign rate differential	'	1,258	512
Convertible note changes and change in fair value	'	'	750
Warrants modification and changes in fair value	'	29	2,997
Other	17	182	7
Change in valuation allowance	10,161	7,895	7,176
Income tax expense (benefit)	$1	$3	($31)

Income_Taxes_Summary_of_Tax_Ef

Income Taxes (Summary of Tax Effects of Temporary Differences that Give Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:	'	'
Accrued liabilities	$163	$799
Other assets	77	17
Inventory capitalization	265	145
Deferred revenue	'	275
Total current deferred tax assets	505	1,236
Noncurrent assets:	'	'
Depreciation	2,150	2,044
Inventory reserves	2,427	2,328
Deferred rent	36	27
Other assets	568	301
Net operating loss carryforward	88,791	74,412
Federal and state tax credit carryforward	8,919	8,919
Total noncurrent deferred tax assets	102,891	88,031
Total deferred tax assets	103,396	89,267
Less valuation allowance	-103,396	-89,267
Net deferred tax assets	'	'

401k_Benefit_Plan_Details

401(k) Benefit Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
401(k) Benefit Plan [Abstract]	'	'	'
Benefit plan, maximum percentage of employee contribution	60.00%	'	'
Benefit plan, percentage of employer matching contribution	50.00%	'	'
Benefit plan, maximum percentage the employer may contribute	4.00%	'	'
Benefit plan, percentage of employer matching contribution immediately vesting percentage	25.00%	'	'
Benefit plan, percentage of employer matching contribution annual vesting percentage	25.00%	'	'
Benefit plan, employer matching contribution vesting period	'3 years	'	'
Benefit plan, recorded expense	$288	$297	$279

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'	'	'
Operating lease expiration period	'2023	'	'
Reimbursement for leasehold improvement	$270	'	'
Rental expense	$500	$519	$645

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Summary of Future Minimum Payments under Noncancelable Operating Leases) (Details) (USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating leases	'
2014	$595
2015	548
2016	550
2017	559
2018	575
Thereafter	688
Total minimum lease payments	$3,515

Research_Collaboration_Agreeme2

Research Collaboration Agreements (Details) (USD $)	31-May-06	31-May-06	31-May-06	31-May-06	Sep. 24, 2011	Aug. 31, 2007	Aug. 31, 2007	Sep. 24, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
	Noble Agreement Warrants [Member]	Noble Research Program Agreement [Member]	Noble Research Program Agreement [Member]	Noble Research Program Agreement [Member]	Sponsored Research and Intellectual Property Rights Agreement [Member]	Sponsored Research and Intellectual Property Rights Agreement [Member]	Sponsored Research and Intellectual Property Rights Agreement [Member]	Ip Rights Agreement [Member]	Ip Rights Agreement [Member]
			Collaboration Agreement July Thirty One Twenty Thirteen [Member]	Collaboration Agreement July Thirty One Twenty Fourteen [Member]			Texas A and M University System Agreement Warrants [Member]		Texas A and M University System Agreement Warrants [Member]
Collaboration Agreements [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Funding of research expenses	'	$3,800,000	$82,700	$85,300	'	$5,100,000	'	'	'
Warrant issued to purchase stock	133,333	'	'	'	'	'	66,666	'	66,666
Exercise price of warrants issued	30	'	'	'	'	'	30	'	14.3
Collaboration agreement date	'	31-Jul-12	31-Jul-13	31-Jul-14	'	'	'	'	'
Agreement expiry date	'	'	'	'	23-Sep-26	'	'	23-Sep-26	'

Research_Collaboration_Agreeme3

Research Collaboration Agreements (Summary of Future Minimum Payments under Company's Research Collaboration) (Details) (Research Collaboration Agreements [Member], USD $)	Aug. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Research Collaboration Agreements [Member]	'
Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items]	'
2014	$3,041
2015	2,977
2016	2,966
2017	613
Contractual Obligation, Total	$9,597

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_I2

Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 31, 2013	31-May-13	Feb. 28, 2013	Nov. 30, 2012	Aug. 31, 2012	31-May-12	Feb. 29, 2012	Nov. 30, 2011	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$898	$1,355	$1,026	$1,966	$1,164	$1,148	$1,311	$1,748	$5,243	$5,371	$6,616
Cost of revenues	1,132	2,134	2,280	700	507	627	487	763	6,245	2,384	2,492
Operating loss	-7,339	-9,317	-9,014	-6,921	-6,650	-8,078	-6,980	-7,094	-32,590	-28,802	-24,898
Net loss	($7,331)	($9,323)	($8,966)	($6,894)	($6,623)	($8,416)	($6,831)	($7,540)	($32,511)	($29,410)	($36,336)
Basic and diluted net loss per share	($0.29)	($0.38)	($0.36)	($0.28)	($0.27)	($0.34)	($2.48)	($3.73)	($1.31)	($2.18)	($18.34)

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 11, 2013
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Workforce reduction, estimated charges	$1.60