The process of getting one's research approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) is detailed in this paper. The article discusses the typical information expected in an IRB proposal and it describes an IRB's role in evaluating a proposed research project, including ethical and scientific questions. The paper focuses on the advantages that accrue to students who take the time to learn about IRBs early in their scientific careers; it also discusses pitfalls that beginning researchers must avoid when proposing research that may involve deception, remuneration of subjects, or sensitive topics. It is explained that most research universities have an IRB, whereas small colleges or undergraduate institutions may not have such a review board. The text opens with a brief history of IRBs, and the role that IRB's play in evaluating a proposed research project as ethical and scientific. Next, the process and steps involved in obtaining IRB approvals are detailed. Some caveats to consider when negotiating the IRB process are covered, as are the advantages that undergraduate students can reap from learning about IRBs. (RJM)