In 1961, he received a jail sentence for non-compliance with official duties during a scout camp near Krosno Odrzańskie.

Under the academic supervision of Andrzej Wąsiewicz, he earned his doctorate in 1976, specialising in labour and social security law.

He was repeatedly elected as a Member of Parliament, serving from 1991 to 2015, and held significant roles such as Senior Marshal and chairmanship of committees.

After 2015, Zych continued his involvement in public service and academia, including positions at the State Tribunal and as an advisor at the Polish Insurance Association.

He also contributed to academic work and taught at the Collegium Intermarium linked to the ultra-conservative Ordo Iuris.