Does an academic reference have to be specifically from a professor or can it be from someone that I do academic work for (researching, analysing, writing manuscripts by deadlines, etc.)?

The academic reference should be from a professor who is able to comment on your academic ability. You should review our current reference form with the professor you are working with, and if they can comment on most of the areas, the reference should be acceptable. If not, we would recommend asking a former professor from your undergraduate program.