Research

We are thrilled to announce that Team Stronger Twogether has been invited to participate in a ground breaking study conducted by the University Psychology Department. Our contact for this research is Dr Monika Maślikowska, a distinguished member of the department. This study focuses on teams consisting of romantic couples who adventure in isolated, confined and extreme (ICE) environments. The aim is to understand the dynamics, challenges, and unique experiences of couples in such extraordinary environments.
The research encompasses a diverse range of extreme adventures, including couples going into space with NASA, exploring the harsh conditions of Antarctica, and conquering the formidable heights of Mount Everest. By participating in this study, we join an elite group of adventurers who push the boundaries of human endurance and resilience.

Our journey as an ocean rowing team aligns perfectly with the objectives of this research. The prolonged and confined nature of our expeditions, coupled with the remote and extreme conditions we face, provides valuable insights into the psychological and relational aspects of such endeavors. This study will not only contribute to the scientific understanding of human behavior in extreme environments but also highlight the strength and unity of romantic partnerships.

We are honored to be part of this prestigious research and look forward to sharing our experiences and findings with the world. Stay tuned for updates on our participation in this exciting study and the incredible adventures that lie ahead.

Research Team

University of Zurich
Monika
Dr. Monika Maślikowska is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Zurich (ATR, Department of Psychology) and Co-chair in the Team Performance Management track (OB&HRM) at the European Academy of Management (EURAM). She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Lugano, Switzerland. Dr. Maślikowska’s research focuses on team collaboration (cohesion, alignment, coordination, passion, diversity) in dynamic (virtual collaboration, boundary spanning) and extreme contexts (analog space missions, polar research, pandemic, war). She has published papers in respected journals, presented at international conferences, and received awards for her work.

In addition to research, Dr. Maślikowska has taught at UZH, USI, SSE, and Hanken, and worked in industry (Amazon, Ferrero). She continues to collaborate with international organisations such as Nestlé, IKEA, and the European Space Agency (ESA) on academic research projects.
Jan
My research focuses on team dynamics in organizations, with a primary emphasis on team-level processes. It addresses both theoretical and practical questions related to team effectiveness.

I investigate how team processes and climate variables (such as psychological safety and team cohesion) impact individuals and teams. I use a multimethod approach to study interactions and climate variables within teams. A significant aspect of my research involves understanding how teams adapt to extreme events. I collaborate with hospitals in Europe, Antarctic programs, and the European Space Agency (ESA) to explore these dynamics. Teams in extreme situations provide a unique platform to learn from rare phenomena and apply this knowledge to more traditional organizations.