If $X$ is a topological space, write $C_n(X)$ for the configuration space of distinct ordered tuples of points in $X$:
$$C_n(X) = \{(x_1, \ldots, x_n) \in X^n \mbox{ so that $i \neq j \implies x_i \neq x_j$ } \}.$$ Define the [banana graph][1] $\beta_k$ to be the suspension of the discrete space $\{1, \ldots, k\}$.  Finally, write $\Sigma_g$ for the closed orientable surface of genus $g$.

> A) If $X = \beta_4$ is the four-edge banana graph, is there a homotopy equivalence $C_3(X) \simeq \Sigma_{13}$?

As background, the thesis of Aaron Abrams (available on his website http://home.wlu.edu/~abramsa/publications/index.html) gives homotopy equivalences

$$
\begin{align*}
C_2(K_5) & \simeq \Sigma_6 \\
C_2(K_{3,3}) & \simeq \Sigma_4 \\
C_3(K_5) & \simeq \Sigma_{16} \\
C_4(K_{3,3}) & \simeq \Sigma_{37},
\end{align*}
$$
where $K_5$ is a complete graph and $K_{3,3}$ is complete bipartite.  So this sort of thing has happened before!

Also, using an explicit simplicial model of $C_3(\beta_4)$ that Sage tells me has 336 vertices and 840 facets, I am able to compute that
$$
H^*(C_3(\beta_4) \, ; \mathbb{Z}) \simeq H^*(\Sigma_{13} \, ; \mathbb{Z}),
$$
and that the cup product in rational cohomology gives a non-degenerate pairing on $H^1$.

> B) How might I check if a finite simplicial complex has the homotopy type of some $\Sigma_g$?

I say "might" because it's probably not computable in general.  Finally, I'll ask what might be a tricky question:

> C) For what graphs $G$ and $n \in \mathbb{N}$ does $C_n(G)$ have the homotopy type of a surface?


  [1]: https://mathoverflow.net/questions/111737/origin-of-the-banana-graph