An Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a committee that protects research participants by thoroughly reviewing study designs, monitoring safety, and ensuring consent is obtained equitably. The IRB must have at least five members from different professions and genders. It convenes regular meetings where a majority must vote to approve research based on minimizing risks compared to potential benefits. Federal regulations require the IRB to include at least one scientific and non-scientific member, as well as a member not affiliated with the institution.