Molecular Templates, Inc. Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Property and Equipment - Components of Property and Equipment (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, Gross	$ 2,865us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross	$ 2,709us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(2,308)	(2,023)
Total property and equipment, net	557us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet	686us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet
Computer and Office Equipment
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, Gross	479	483
Laboratory Equipment
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, Gross	1,838	1,703
Leasehold Improvements
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Total property and equipment, Gross	$ 548	$ 523